Refugees as Hamas sympathizers? "Cheap populism"

In the interview with PULS 24, migration researcher Gerald Knaus opposes the generalization that all or many refugees who came to Europe are now Hamas sympathizers. He also argues: “We must not fall into the trap of 9/11 and Hamas.”

Migration researcher Gerald Knaus of the European Stability Initiative sees the implication that many refugees or many Muslims are Hamas sympathizers “cheap populism”. On PULS 24 Newsroom Live he says that these statements come from those on the right, “who were always against welcoming those who sought protection”.

Many people who came to Europe in 2015 or 2016 were fleeing Islamists or Assad’s torturers. There are also large demonstrations for Palestine in countries to which there have not been large movements of refugees – mention Great Britain or Scotland, for example.

Hamas’ goal is “total polarization”

A distinction must also be made between “small groups” who would take to the streets as Hamas sympathizers and those who “see the suffering of the people of Gaza,” he says.

Knaus advocates not falling into the “trap” that people fell into after 9/11. “The goal of Hamas terrorists is total polarization – including in our society”says the migration researcher. He does not intend to give advice to Israel, but emphasizes that “certain actions against civilians violate international law”.

To be able to live together again after wars – “even if they are just wars” – international justice is important, he believes.