Recent knife attacks in Solingen have led to heated debates on the tightening of weapon laws and changes to migration policies ahead of the upcoming state elections in Saxony and Thuringia. According to surveys, the right-wing party AfD could become the strongest force in both states.
Politicians from all parties are calling for decisive action against irregular migration and Islamism to defend liberal democracy. Federal President Steinmeier is also calling for more personnel for security authorities and is considering expanding the powers of the Federal Criminal Police Office.
The Federal Prosecutor's Office is investigating the Solingen attack, and an arrest warrant has been issued against the 26-year-old Syrian suspect. The attack has sparked a broader debate on a tougher asylum policy and stricter gun control laws.
The discussions also include the possibility of implementing a ban on carrying certain knives in public spaces. The CDU leader Friedrich Merz has called for deportations to Syria and Afghanistan, as well as an asylum freeze for refugees from these countries.
However, there are differing opinions on the effectiveness and feasibility of these measures. The debates are intensifying as the state elections approach and various political parties stake their positions on migration and security issues.
