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Germany Debates Tying Citizenship to Israel Loyalty

Effective immediately, those applying for German citizenship in the east-central state of Saxony-Anhalt must declare their support for Israel’s right to exist. This “commitment” is part of a new language that state interior minister, Tamara Zieschang, informed relevant authorities about in a ministerial decree this week.

Failing to do so would deny naturalization to foreigners who otherwise fulfil the necessary conditions for obtaining German nationality. Under the new guidelines, applicants would have to sign a declaration that they “recognize Israel’s right to exist and condemn any efforts directed against the existence of the state of Israel.” 

A more thorough check of “antisemitic attitudes” would also be part of the naturalization process.

Naturalization law is made at the federal level, but it’s up to each of the 16 states to implement it. A similar Israel clause is currently under consideration in the Bundestag, the German parliament, which would then apply nationwide.

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DW

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