Germany has announced that it will offer a one-time payment of $236 (€220) to Holocaust survivors in Israel. This assistance is intended to help them deal with the aftermath of the recent Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel on October 7.
The German finance ministry has stated that a total of $27 million (€25 million) will be distributed to 113,000 Holocaust survivors living in Israel as compensation for the impact of the attacks.
The German finance ministry spokeswoman mentioned that many Holocaust survivors were severely affected by the Hamas attacks, which resulted in the loss of their homes and support systems such as care.
She also stated that the extra funds were intended to assist the Holocaust survivors promptly during the distressing and challenging war situation.
The deadliest terror attack in Israel's history was carried out by Hamas, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,200 people and the abduction of over 250 others.
Following this attack, Israeli military actions in Gaza have led to the deaths of at least 33,634 Palestinians and injuries to 76,214 individuals, as reported by the Ministry of Health in Gaza. Human Rights Watch and Oxfam have recently accused Israel of conducting "indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks in violation of international law."
Each of the 113,000 Jewish survivors in Israel will be getting a one-time payment of $236. This initiative is led by the nonprofit Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference), which advocates for Holocaust survivors and partners with the German government.
The distribution of these payments in Israel is a joint effort between the Claims Conference, the Holocaust Survivors Rights Authority of the Israeli government, and the German finance ministry.
Gideon Taylor, president of the Claims Conference, commended the payment scheme, describing it as a symbolic gesture of solidarity to Holocaust survivors in Israel.
The German Finance Ministry also stated that the payment of 25 million euros was meant to show support and solidarity to Holocaust survivors in Israel, especially during a time of heightened anti-Semitism worldwide.
German politicians have emphasized that Israel's security is a top priority for Germany. This strong commitment is rooted in Germany's special relationship with Israel, which was shaped by the tragic events of the Holocaust. During this dark period, under Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime, Germany was responsible for the systematic murder of 6 million Jews.
Editor's P/S:
The announcement by Germany to provide financial assistance to Holocaust survivors in Israel is a commendable gesture that acknowledges the ongoing trauma and hardship faced by these individuals. It is especially poignant considering the recent Hamas attacks, which triggered memories of the atrocities they endured during the Holocaust. The one-time payment of $236 may not fully compensate for their suffering, but it serves as a symbolic gesture of support and solidarity.
However, the article also highlights the ongoing tension and conflict in the region. The deadly Hamas attacks and the subsequent Israeli military actions have resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the disproportionate use of force by Israel, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to international law. As the world remembers the victims of the Holocaust, it is crucial to address the ongoing violence and seek lasting peace and reconciliation for all those affected by the conflict.