In Germany, a heated debate surrounds the identity and beliefs of the suspect in the Magdeburg Christmas market attack, leading to unfounded theories about his religious views. With national elections approaching in February, the migration debate has resurfaced.
The suspect, 50-year-old Taleb al-Abdulmohsen from Saudi Arabia, arrived in Germany in 2006 and received permanent residency in 2016. German media report that Abdulmohsen criticized Islam on social media and feared the Islamization of Germany.
He supported the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) and radical-right politicians like Geert Wilders. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described him as “Islamophobic.” Abdulmohsen has a criminal history, including threats of violence stemming from a dispute with a medical association.
Reports indicate he may have mental health issues, with Die Welt noting he received treatment. Politicians urge calm, warning against divisive conclusions.
The attack has intensified the migration debate, with AfD members highlighting the suspect’s background. AfD leader Alice Weidel attributes the attack to “unchecked immigration,” advocating for strict asylum policies.
Influencers, including Elon Musk, disseminate unverified theories about the suspect’s identity on social media.
Source: NOS