German Far-Right and Far-Left Gains Spark Concern in Israel and Germany

Germany is experiencing a significant political shift with the rise of far-right and far-left parties, evidenced by recent local election victories and strong poll numbers. The far-left party Die Linke secured a significant plurality in Berlin elections, following similar successes by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in recent weeks. This "pincer movement" is eroding traditional centrist parties and raising alarms both within Germany and internationally, particularly in Israel.

Israel's Ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, described the election results as an "immediate existential threat" to the Jewish community, especially after Die Linke's win in Berlin. He noted the party's anti-Israel stance, including a singer calling for "death to the IDF" and the party officially labeling events in Gaza as "genocide," while acknowledging their recognition of Israel's right to exist. Prosor urged Die Linke to address the "uninhibited antisemitism" within its ranks.

The far-right AfD is currently the largest party in German polls, with around 28% support. Labeled a "far-right movement" and suspected of illegal activities, the AfD has gained traction with its anti-establishment platform, populist messages, and opposition to immigration. Despite attempts to distance itself from Nazism, prominent figures have made controversial statements, including one leader using Nazi-era slogans and another praising the Wehrmacht.

Former Israeli Ambassador to Germany, Jeremy Issacharoff, stated that the "collapse of the political center" in Germany is a serious problem. Traditional centrist parties, which once commanded over 50% of the vote, now poll around 33%. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces record low approval ratings, with his party failing to pass the electoral threshold in recent regional elections. The rise of the AfD challenges the "firewall" principle in German politics, which prohibits cooperation with the far-right.

The surge in extremist parties is attributed to widespread public frustration over the economy and immigration policies. The AfD blames Merz for failing to improve the economy or address voter concerns on immigration and security. Merz has called his party's defeat an "unmitigated disaster" but vowed to remain in office, though an AfD co-chair suggested his departure is imminent.