Germany Tightens Security and Asylum Laws After Deadly Attack

The German government has introduced stricter security and asylum regulations following a deadly knife attack linked to Islamic State. The measures come amid mounting criticism of Berlin's migration policies and ahead of critical state elections. The package includes tighter gun laws, harsher asylum rules, and enhanced law enforcement capabilities.

In the wake of a fatal stabbing spree tied to the Islamic State, the German government has unveiled a series of stringent security and asylum measures. The attack, which resulted in three deaths and eight injuries during Solingen's 650-year anniversary festival, has sparked far-right opposition and criticism of Berlin's migration policies.

The suspect, an asylum seeker from Syria, had not been deported despite previous government attempts. Political tensions are escalating just days before elections in two eastern states where the anti-immigration AfD party is leading in polls, putting added pressure on the ruling coalition to adopt a harder stance. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has welcomed dialogue with opposition leader Friedrich Merz but rejected proposals like declaring a national emergency or banning entry to Syrians and Afghans.

The proposed package, pending approval from Germany's parliament, seeks to impose stricter gun regulations, ban certain weapons at public events, and authorize federal law officers to use Tasers. Additionally, asylum and residency laws will be tightened, including tougher penalties for serious crimes and exclusions from benefits for asylum seekers with claims in other EU countries. Measures to combat violent Islamism will also be enhanced, including the use of biometric data for facial recognition and strengthened domestic intelligence powers. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the suspect's failed deportation highlighted the complexities of Germany's current asylum procedures.

(With inputs from agencies.)