German authorities conducted widespread raids on Thursday, targeting 54 locations across the country as part of an investigation into the Hamburg-based Islamic Center (IZH). The center is suspected of promoting Iranian ideology and supporting activities linked to Hezbollah, a Lebanon-based militant group.
The German Interior Ministry revealed that the IZH has been under the observation of the country’s domestic intelligence agency for an extended period. The center is accused of spreading the “revolutionary concept” of Iran’s supreme leader. Additionally, authorities are examining suspicions that the IZH supports banned activities by Hezbollah within Germany.
The IZH, known for operating a mosque in Hamburg, is believed by German intelligence to wield significant influence or full control over other mosques and groups. These entities are said to frequently promote a “clearly antisemitic and anti-Israel attitude.” The authorities are considering the possibility of banning the IZH, and materials seized during the raids will undergo evaluation.
The raids took place in Hamburg and six other German states, including Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Hesse, North-Rhine Westphalia, and Lower Saxony. In addition to the IZH, the investigation targets five other groups suspected of being sub-organizations associated with it.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser emphasized the government’s commitment to monitoring the Islamist scene, particularly during a time when many Jews feel threatened.
On November 2, Faeser implemented a formal ban on activity by or in support of Hamas and dissolved Samidoun, a group celebrating Hamas’ attack on Israel. This action followed a pledge made by Chancellor Olaf Scholz shortly after the attack.
