German parliament approves bill criminalizing Israel denial

Germany's upper house of parliament approved a bill on July 10, 2026, that would criminalize publicly denying Israel's right to exist or calling for its destruction, advancing a controversial measure that now heads to the lower house for final approval. The Bundesrat, representing Germany's federal states, backed the proposal introduced by the state of Hesse. If passed by the Bundestag after the summer recess, Germany would become the first European country to impose specific criminal penalties for such statements, with punishments of up to five years in prison or a fine.

The proposed law amends Section 130 of Germany's Criminal Code, which covers incitement to hatred. Criminal liability would only apply when such statements are deemed capable of encouraging a willingness to commit antisemitic acts of violence or arbitrary measures. Proponents, including Hesse's Justice Minister Christian Heinz, argue the bill is a legally justified and politically necessary tool to combat a surge in antisemitism, citing an 83 percent increase in incidents since October 2023. He stated the initiative sends a signal that Germany wants to better protect Jewish life.