Berlin Police Ban Pro-Palestinian Rally Amid Fears of Potential Crimes

Berlin police have prohibited a pro-Palestinian rally scheduled for New Year's Eve, citing concerns that the event could lead to criminal activities. Police chief Barbara Slowik expressed apprehension that certain groups would exploit the gathering as an opportunity to commit crimes. The rise of both violent and peaceful pro-Palestinian protests across the Western world in recent months has prompted authorities to take precautionary measures.

During a radio interview, Slowik stated, "Crimes are to be expected - in the area or from this gathering. The situation is emotional. An influx of troublemakers is to be expected who could use the meeting to commit crimes. No meeting leader could keep such a development under control. That's why the police banned the demonstration." The organizers initially anticipated a modest turnout of 100 individuals, but authorities believed that a significantly larger crowd would attend.

This decision comes in the wake of anti-Israel protesters chanting “Allahu Akbar” and other slogans during a demonstration at the World Trade Center site in New York City. Although “Allahu Akbar” translates to "God is great" in Arabic, the phrase has been associated with terrorist attacks. The protest, which took place on Thursday, occurred precisely 22 years after the devastating 9/11 attacks carried out by Islamic terrorists, claiming nearly 3,000 lives.

The group obstructed the entrance to the World Trade Center building, while other protesters marched to City Hall and Zuccotti Park near Wall Street. This demonstration formed part of the "Flood NYC for Palestine" protest, which has been replicated in various cities across the United States since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October, triggered by Hamas' unprovoked aggression.

Earlier in the week, pro-Palestinian demonstrators staged a disturbing spectacle near Rockefeller Center, brandishing blood-covered mock nativity scenes and shouting, "Christmas is canceled here." The protesters accused President Biden of genocide, holding signs that conveyed their grievances.

A video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, by the Shirion Network, an organization dedicated to monitoring anti-Semitism, captured the shocking scenes at the World Trade Center site. The caption read, "NOW: 'Allah Akbarr!! Never could imagine for a minute this would be heard at the WTC after 9/11." The video depicted hundreds of protesters marching, chanting, and displaying their signs.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding any potential arrests made during Thursday's protest. However, several arrests were reported in connection with the demonstration.

The pro-Palestinian movement continues to generate controversy and public debate, with supporters and opponents expressing their views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As tensions persist, authorities remain vigilant in ensuring public safety and preventing any potential escalation of violence.