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Germany Shuts Down Islamic Center Hamburg Over Extremist Ties
Germany has closed the Islamic Center in Hamburg due to its connections with extremist activities. This decisive action highlights the nation’s ongoing efforts to combat radicalization and ensure public safety in its communities.
Germany Bans Islamic Center Hamburg Over Extremist Links
On Wednesday, German authorities took decisive action by banning the Islamic Center Hamburg (I.Z.H.), citing its status as an extremist organization with ties to Hezbollah and its role as a front for Iran’s supreme leader. This significant move highlights the ongoing concerns regarding radical groups operating within the country.
The I.Z.H. has been under scrutiny from German law enforcement for several years, with investigations revealing alleged connections to Hezbollah, which has been classified as a terrorist organization by Germany since 2020. Nancy Faeser, Germany’s Interior Minister, articulated these concerns in a statement, asserting that the group propagates an Islamist extremist ideology and is actively involved in supporting Hezbollah while also disseminating antisemitic sentiments.
The Interior Ministry has initiated court-ordered searches at 53 locations associated with the I.Z.H. throughout Germany, including cities such as Berlin and Hamburg. In conjunction with these searches, authorities are seizing the organization’s assets and are proceeding with the closure of four Shiite mosques, notably including the Blue Mosque in Hamburg, identified as the I.Z.H.’s headquarters. This mosque is recognized as a central hub for the Shiite Muslim community across Europe, according to local government sources.
According to the Interior Ministry, the I.Z.H. operates as a direct representative of Iran’s supreme leader and has ambitions to instigate an Islamic revolution within Germany. Established in 1953, the I.Z.H. has previously denied all allegations against it. They were not immediately reachable for comment following the ban and have consistently refuted claims of being under Iranian control. Last year, they unsuccessfully challenged the German government’s depiction of their organization.
In a statement released in October, the I.Z.H. emphasized their commitment to peace, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue, explicitly condemning all forms of violence and extremism. However, this declaration stands in stark contrast to the evidence collected during a series of searches conducted in November, which led to the confiscation of cash, laptops, and cellphones, further substantiating the government’s concerns.