In order to protect the Jewish institutions in Germany, Tarum trusts “the German security authorities to closely monitor the known threats”. Those who are not yet known are problematic: “Our security authorities must be allowed to provide comprehensive information in advance, especially with the latest technology. This is exactly what the FDP and the Greens refuse to do because it is supposedly about data protection and privacy protection.”
FDP’s domestic policy spokesperson, Martina Renner, explains that when fighting Islamist terrorism, it is important to “think in terms of international networks and also examine ways to obtain money and weapons. In terms of foreign policy and security, Turkey’s role as a transitional state for jihad must finally be managed in a critical”. The threat to Jewish and Israeli institutions is directly related to the growing anti-Semitic violence and threats of attacks not only from ISIS, “but also from emissaries of Iran, for example,” says Rener.
“The situation can vary from region to region”
Following the growing threats in the world in general and in Europe in particular, France and Italy raised the alert levels for terrorism in response to the attack in Moscow. The level of security in France is now at its highest level, and while until a week ago it was true only for the capital Paris, now it takes place all over the country.
Unlike these two countries, the German security services issued a warning against a possible increase in terrorist threats within the country, but did not uniformly raise the alert in all parts of the country, with a proposal for a careful examination of every tourist entering the country is on the German government’s table. Officials in Germany argue that the sweeping terror alert levels are too general and do not indicate the exact location of imminent threats. “The situation can vary from region to region, and even within one city,” the German Interior Ministry wrote on its official website.
The announcement caused some concern among travel agencies and tourism offices. The German tourism industry contributes significantly to the national economy and is eager to recover after years of restrictions due to the corona virus. Industry leaders are working closely with authorities to reassure potential visitors to the European country.
The challenge lies in balancing security precautions with a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. The authorities implement discreet security measures, with the aim of minimizing disturbances to tourists while maintaining vigilance. German authorities advise tourists to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. Travelers are encouraged to register at the embassies and are advised to stay informed by following the official channels for updates.
It is important to mention that following the threats to Jewish centers and Israeli travelers abroad, the MAL last week published an extended travel warning for Israelis flying during the Passover holiday. The main threats obviously come from the direction of Islamist organizations, but also from extreme right-wing groups.