That is why, on the 50th anniversary of the occupation, I call on Germany specifically and Europe in general to make the resolution of this conflict a priority once again. This is not a political but rather a conflict between two nations who are both absolutely convinced that they have the right to the same, small piece of land. If today more than ever, Europe is stating with a loud voice that it must be stronger and more independent, then this new strength and independence entails the clear demand for the end of the occupation and recognition of the Palestinian state.
As a Jew living in Berlin for more than 25 years, I have a special perspective on Germany's historical responsibilities within this conflict. I am only able to live freely and happily in Germany because the Germans have faced and processed their past. Of course, even in modern-day Germany, there are worrying trends on the far left against which we all must fight. But by and large, however, German society has grown into a tolerant, free society aware of its humanitarian responsibilities. [...]
Without the Holocaust there never would have been a partition of Palestine, there would have been no al-Nakba, 1967 war, and occupation. This is not only about German responsibility for the Palestinians but rather that of all Europeans: Anti-Semitism was a pan-European phenomenon and the Palestinians continue to suffer from its direct consequences, even though they themselves are in no way responsible for it.
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