Esken expresses interest in gaining knowledge from Solingen.
Following the controversial Islamist attack in Solingen, SPD head Saskia Esken faced backlash for her comment that not much could be learned from it. Now, she's adopted a more introspective tone.
SPD chairwoman Saskia Esken has recanted her stance that little could be gained from the Islamist-inspired terrorist attack in Solingen. "That was definitely not a smart or appropriate statement," she told Welt TV.
"From this attack and others that have transpired before, as well as those that might still be in the planning stages, we must acknowledge that we need to tackle Islamism and the looming threat of Islamist terrorism more seriously than we have until now," the SPD chairwoman said. She referred to the government's action plan and announced plans to consult with the opposition from CDU/CSU, as well as the federal states.
On ARD's "Caren Miosga" show following the attack, which claimed three lives, she had commented, "Not much can be learned from this attack, as the perpetrator seemed unknown to the police and, consequently, was not being monitored." Her statement sparked widespread criticism.
The SPD chairwoman recognizes the need to approach Islamism more seriously, acknowledging that there are valuable lessons to be learned from Islamist-related attacks like the one in Solingen. The controversy surrounding Saskia Esken's initial statement on ARD's show emphasized the importance of a more thoughtful approach.
