A deadly shooting unfolded in Munich, Germany, near the Israeli consulate and a Nazi history museum. German police fatally shot an 18-year-old Austrian man on September 5 after they spotted him carrying a long firearm.
The incident occurred close to the site where the 1972 Munich Olympics attack took place, killing 11 Israeli athletes and a police officer. The Israeli consulate had closed to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of the tragic event.
Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann says the motive behind the shooting remains unknown, but he suspects a link to the anniversary. He suggested that the armed man might have planned to attack an Israeli institution.
A exchange of fire ensued between the suspect and five police officers. The man was armed with a vintage hunting rifle. German media revealed that security services had previously known him for suspected ties to violent Islamist groups.
Police cordoned the area around Karolinenplatz and Briennerstrasse and advised nearby residents and office workers to stay indoors. Police worked to clarify the situation, warning against speculation.
Following the incident, security was heightened at Munich’s main synagogue. Israeli Consul Talya Lador expressed gratitude to the police for their prompt response, emphasizing the dangers of rising antisemitism.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the attack, stating that it occurred on a day meant for remembrance of the 1972 Munich Olympics victims. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser reaffirmed the high priority of protecting Jewish and Israeli institutions.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and cooperation in combating hate-fueled violence.
