German Far-Right Leader Links Defense Firm to Deportation Plans

A regional leader of Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, Ulrich Siegmund, has sparked controversy by suggesting that a planned defense factory by Israeli firm Elbit Systems could be useful for future "deportation measures." Siegmund, who leads the AfD in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, made the remarks while discussing potential cooperation with Elbit Systems on establishing a production site in the town of Sangerhausen.

Siegmund attempted to clarify his statements following public backlash, explaining that the defense industry encompasses more than just weapons, including equipment and technologies used by security forces. He argued that strengthening these capabilities is necessary for enforcing laws, carrying out deportations consistently, and enabling "real remigration," which he termed a "duty of responsible policy."

The proposed Elbit Systems factory in Sangerhausen, a region facing economic challenges, could create up to 400 jobs. The municipality has been in negotiations for months regarding the allocation of approximately 130 hectares of land in a new industrial zone. Elbit Systems has stated that no final decision on the factory's location has been made.

The project had already faced local opposition before Siegmund's comments. In late August, around 550 people protested the potential establishment of the factory, organized by a coalition called "Keep Elbit Out." Opponents have also initiated a campaign for a local referendum to prevent the municipality from selling land to defense companies.

Siegmund's remarks come shortly after the AfD's significant electoral gains in Saxony-Anhalt, where the party secured 39 seats, falling just three seats short of a majority in the state parliament. Siegmund is seeking to become state premier and is attempting to form a government, though other major parties, including the CDU, SPD, Greens, and the Left Party, have declared they will not cooperate with the AfD.