German police raid homes of pro-Palestinian activists in Berlin

In Berlin, police raided the homes of four pro-Palestinian activists. These individuals are accused of committing crimes during demonstrations in support of Palestine. The raids were carried out in response to a surge in pro-Palestinian protests in Berlin since October 7.

According to Berlin police and prosecutorial authorities, the four men are accused of committing crimes through "pro-Palestinian activities." The suspects, aged between 18 and 40, are charged with disrupting public order, inciting the public, and using symbols of unconstitutional organizations.

Among those whose homes were raided was a young man accused of throwing a microphone stand at Berlin's Minister of Culture, Joe Chialo. Chialo had been exerting pressure to prevent public funding for art groups critical of Israel's actions in Gaza. Another protester is being investigated for sharing pro-Palestinian slogans on social media.

Phones, computers, and other digital materials were seized during the raids.

German authorities claim that pro-Palestinian protests have involved violence and antisemitism, leading to increased crackdowns. However, these actions have been criticized as attempts to silence those highlighting the suffering in Gaza.
Protesters argue that they are simply trying to raise awareness of the atrocities faced by the people of Gaza, and Germany's harsh response is being viewed by some as an effort to suppress free expression.