An imam and a rabbi are trying to heal their community. The Berlin district of Neukölln has been the epicenter of pro-Palestinian protests in Germany since Hamas' October attack. Can an unexpected friendship between religious leaders help to calm community tensions?

Berlin

In the Berlin district of Neukölln, known for its vibrant diversity and recent tensions, an imam and a rabbi have embarked on a mission of reconciliation. The area has become a focal point for pro-Palestinian protests following a Hamas attack last October, leading to a series of community clashes and incidents of anti-Semitic attacks. This unexpected friendship between the two religious leaders aims to bridge divides and pacify the community unrest.

Imam Mohammed and Rabbi Jeremy met through their local Member of Parliament and quickly formed a bond over informal meetings, discussions about their respective problems, and shared laughter. Their connection grew stronger when they celebrated Iftar together during Ramadan, despite the rabbi's self-deprecating joke about his singing performance. They both believe in the power of hope and unity to overcome adversity and are committed to spreading this message within their community.

Their joint efforts have taken place against a backdrop of continued tension, with anti-war activists reporting that their demonstrations have been unfairly curtailed by police. Imam Mohammed emphasized the importance of allowing lawful dissent within the community, provided it respects certain boundaries. Looking ahead, they are exploring further initiatives to solidify their message of harmony, including a potential demonstration displaying Israeli and Palestinian flags together, symbolizing their commitment to coexistence and mutual respect.



An Imam and a Rabbi build bridges in Berlin

A rabbi and an imam decide to go to church. No it's not the set-up for a bad joke, but rather, in this corner of Berlin, an act of reconciliation. Mohammed and Jeremy are hoping their new friendship can help heal their community. It's difficult to find the words to explain what October 7 was for the Jewish community in the world. There were difficult times after October 7 until today. But something good that came out of this is my new friend. They're meeting at the Church of Galilee in the Neukölln district of Berlin, a community reeling from the war in Gaza. After the October Hamas terror attack, members of the now-banned Samidun group handed out sweets on the streets here in celebration. Since then, pro-Palestinian protesters have clashed with police, and there have been several incidents of anti-Semitic attacks. It was necessary then that stakeholders in this society stick together to show this diversity that we have here in Germany, in Berlin, and especially here in Neukölln, and to preserve, to protect it, and to strengthen it. Although neighbours, the pair were strangers until their local Member of Parliament connected them. What was important for us was the informal meetings. Just sitting around, drinking tea, chatting and making jokes. Yeah, jokes. Talking about our problems also. And most recently, they celebrated Iftar, the breaking of the Ramadan fast, together. I sang at our Iftar. That was not so good. The first thing is awakening this hope that is there, kindling this light, this candle, no matter how small it is. But we see that it is spreading. In recent days, anti-war activists in Berlin have complained that their protests are being criminalised after police shut down demos. Sabri says there needs to be room for lawful dissent. We need to give people the freedom to show their emotions, but with a strong clarification that there are boundaries. Now this unlikely alliance is considering its next steps. Among the ideas, a demonstration with Israeli and Palestinian flags side by side. Here, of all places, that would be a powerful punchline.

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