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Germany's Jews Mark 75 Years Amid Rising Antisemitism

9/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Central Council of Jews in Germany marked its 75th anniversary amid increasing antisemitism.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered poignant speeches at the Reichenbach Synagogue reopening and a Berlin reception.
He condemned the rise of antisemitism since the October 7 Hamas attacks and stressed that criticism of Israel should not justify antisemitism.
The Central Council called for unconditional government support for Israel.
Merz highlighted the importance of civil courage against antisemitism and expressed shame over Germany's current antisemitic climate.

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Story summary

The Central Council of Jews in Germany marked its 75th anniversary amid increasing antisemitism.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered poignant speeches at the Reichenbach Synagogue reopening and a Berlin reception.
He condemned the rise of antisemitism since the October 7 Hamas attacks and stressed that criticism of Israel should not justify antisemitism.
The Central Council called for unconditional government support for Israel.
Merz highlighted the importance of civil courage against antisemitism and expressed shame over Germany's current antisemitic climate.