Germany advances bill criminalizing Israel denial

Germany's upper house of parliament, the Germany — Bundesrat, has advanced a bill that would make denial of Israel's right to exist a criminal offense punishable by up to five years in prison. The legislation, introduced by the state of Germany — Hesse and championed by its governor Boris Rhein, now moves to the lower house, the Germany — Bundestag, for consideration after the summer recess. The bill expands Section 130 of the German Criminal Code, which currently criminalizes Holocaust denial, to include denial of Israel's right to exist. Supporters, including Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor and German Justice Minister, argue it is necessary to combat a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents, which increased from 1,957 in 2020 to 8,627 in 2024. Critics, including the European Council and free speech advocates, argue the law endangers freedom of expression. The bill does not restrict criticism of Israeli government policies or academic and artistic works.