A 27-year-old individual found guilty in Berlin for publishing anti-Israeli content on social networking platforms.
The accused's intention was to instigate conflict. Their social media posts were designed to disrupt peace in Germany and instill fear among Jews worldwide. "They've given a podium for hate," stated Wettley. The actions were undeniably antisemitic.
The 27-year-old was convicted for incitement to commit crimes, inciting violence, aiding and abetting, and distributing propaganda materials for unlawful and terrorist organizations. The prosecution had also requested a sentence of one year and ten months without parole.
On October 7, 2023, the same day as the Hamas attack on Israel, the defendant posted a Hamas photo on social media depicting an Israeli soldier with a foot on his head.
The judge deemed this image a call to war by Hamas and also incitement. "Such actions are instrumental in enabling Jews in Berlin to no longer feel safe walking the streets with a kippa," said prosecutor Alexander Roth during his argument.
Additionally, the 27-year-old had instigated riots on Instagram on October 18 on the online platform where she had 450 followers at the time. During the riots, cars and garbage bins were set on fire, resulting in 65 police officers getting injured. With an already volatile atmosphere, the defendant fueled the flames with her call, said Judge Wettley.
The defendant's lawyer, Yalcin Geyhan, argued for a fine. He mentioned an "unbelievable foolishness" that his client displayed in the rapid internet environment. She was not a ringleader or a hate preacher.
Among the 450 Instagram followers, there were not extremist males but primarily young women and girls. The proceedings against her served as a "warning" for her client. "She will never use social media again in her life."
The 27-year-old is reportedly the daughter of Lebanese refugees. She was born in Denmark but came to Germany as a child. In her closing statement, she expressed regret for her actions. "That was wrong at every level."
As part of the probation order, the 27-year-old must pay 600 euros to the organization Hate Aid, which combats hate online. In addition, she must complete 20 sessions with the Violence Prevention Network, which aids people with ideological risks.
Read also:
- The public prosecutor's office in Germany initiated charges against the woman for her anti-Israeli posts on social media.
- The woman, a 27-year-old born in Denmark to Lebanese refugees, was found guilty in a Berlin regional court for inciting violence and distributing propaganda materials for Hamas.
- The media widely reported on the case, with many expressing concern about the impact of social media on civil unrest.
- The judge handed down a suspended sentence, ordering the woman to pay a fine to an organization combating online hate and to participate in violence prevention programs.
- Following her conviction, the woman's Instagram account was suspended, with over 450 followers being notified of the violation of community guidelines.
- In her closing statement, the woman expressed remorse for her actions, acknowledging that she had contributed to an environment of fear and divisiveness in German society.
