German Far-Right Leader Links Elbit Factory to Deportation Plans

The leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Ulrich Siegmund, has suggested that a potential Elbit Systems factory in the region could aid in future deportation operations. Siegmund stated that "in the future deportation plan, we will of course also need the appropriate means," implying that the defense contractor's products could be utilized for such purposes. He later attempted to clarify his remarks, asserting that the defense industry encompasses not only weapons but also equipment, vehicles, and protective technologies used by security forces, which he believes are necessary for enforcing laws, carrying out deportations, and enabling "real remigration." Siegmund characterized this as a "duty of responsible policy."

The controversy arises amid plans by Elbit Systems to establish a production site in Sangerhausen, a town facing economic challenges. The proposed factory could create up to 400 jobs, and the local 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.

Even before Siegmund's comments, the factory plan faced local opposition. In late August, around 550 people protested in Sangerhausen against the potential Elbit facility, organized by a coalition called "Keep Elbit Out." Protesters 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 gains in the Saxony-Anhalt state elections, where the party secured 39 seats but fell just short of a majority. Siegmund is seeking to become the state's prime minister and is attempting to form a government, though other major parties have ruled out cooperation with the AfD.