Germany sees record surge in anti-Muslim incidents amid Middle East tensions

Germany sees record surge in anti-Muslim incidents amid Middle East tensions
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Germany recorded over 3,000 anti-Muslim incidents in 2024, marking a record high and a 60% increase from the previous year, according to rights group CLAIM in its annual report released Tuesday. The group documented 3,080 cases of anti-Muslim racism, compared to 1,926 in 2023 — an average of more than eight incidents per day.

The report revealed a troubling rise in the severity of these incidents. Among them were two homicides, 198 cases of physical assault — including three attempted murders — 122 cases of property damage, four arson attacks, and 259 other offenses such as robbery and extortion. In addition, more than 70 mosques were targeted, alongside threats and attacks on Muslim-owned businesses.

Women were disproportionately affected, making up 71% of identified victims, particularly those wearing visible Islamic attire. Children also faced increasing verbal and physical abuse. CLAIM highlighted that anti-Muslim racism now permeates public spaces, institutions, and digital platforms, citing occurrences in schools, hospitals, housing, and online discourse.

The surge in hate incidents coincided with rising tensions in the Middle East following the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza war in October 2023. CLAIM and other rights groups noted that anti-Muslim attacks in Europe often increase in the aftermath of such events, with Muslims frequently portrayed as security threats in public discourse.

The report also criticized media narratives and political debates that focus on security concerns while misrepresenting Islam and its adherents. CLAIM said these portrayals contribute to fear, discrimination, and even violence against Muslims in Germany.

Moreover, the organization warned that the true scale of anti-Muslim incidents is likely underreported due to limited access to reporting systems, victims’ distrust of authorities, and a lack of institutional expertise in identifying anti-Muslim bias. CLAIM called for improved data collection, targeted prevention strategies, and greater institutional accountability to address what it described as a systemic and growing issue in German society.