Germany carried out deportations of Afghan nationals on Friday, marking the first such action since the Taliban regained power in August 2021. The move comes amidst heightened concerns over security and immigration policies in the country.
Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit confirmed the deportations, stating that the individuals in question were convicted criminals. However, specific details regarding their offenses were not immediately disclosed.
Due to the absence of diplomatic relations with the Taliban, Germany had to navigate alternative channels to facilitate the deportations.
The recent deportations follow a tragic incident in Solingen, where a Syrian asylum seeker, who was supposed to be deported to Bulgaria last year, carried out a deadly knife attack. The suspect, now under investigation for murder and alleged ties to a terrorist organization, had reportedly evaded deportation previously.
The Islamic State militant group has claimed responsibility for the Solingen attack, citing religious motivations. However, the veracity of these claims remains unverified.
The incident has reignited debates on immigration policies in Germany, particularly in the lead-up to regional elections in Saxony and Thuringia. Anti-immigration parties, including the Alternative for Germany, are expected to gain support in the upcoming polls.
In response to the recent events, Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirmed the government's commitment to deporting criminals from Afghanistan and Syria. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser also announced plans to strengthen knife laws and streamline deportation procedures to enhance public safety.
As Germany grapples with security challenges and political tensions, the government faces mounting pressure to address the complexities of immigration and national security in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
