The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a knife attack in Solingen, Germany that killed three people and wounded eight others. The group stated that the attacker targeted Christians and was a “soldier of the Islamic State” seeking revenge for Muslims in Palestine. Police have begun raiding a home for asylum seekers in Solingen in search of the attacker and have arrested a 15-year-old boy suspected of knowing about the attack but not informing authorities.
Authorities have not been able to identify a motive for the attack, but are not ruling out the possibility of terrorism. The attacker deliberately aimed for the victims’ throats during the crowded festival in Solingen. Police are conducting various searches and investigations in the state of North Rhine Westphalia to gather evidence and witness testimony to piece together the overall picture of the attack. Churches in Solingen have opened their doors to offer prayer and emergency pastoral care, while an online portal has been established for witnesses to upload footage and information related to the incident.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser visited Solingen and pledged government support to the city and its residents. She emphasized that such attacks would not divide society. Minister-President of North Rhine Westphalia Hendrik Wüst described the attack as an act of terror, though Faeser refrained from classifying it as a terror attack. Flowers were laid and candles lit in memory of the victims as the city mourned the tragic events. Faeser stated that the government would do everything possible to help Solingen recover from the attack.
The attack took place during the “Festival of Diversity” in Solingen, a celebration marking the city’s 650th anniversary with live music, cabaret, and acrobatics. The festival was canceled following the violent incident, and police and forensic investigators continued to search for evidence at the scene. Authorities are increasing police presence at larger events as the perpetrator remains at large. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier both expressed shock and sorrow over the attack, emphasizing the need for the perpetrator to be swiftly captured and brought to justice.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has proposed toughening weapons laws in Germany to restrict the carrying of knives in public to those with a blade measuring up to 6 centimeters. There has been growing concern about knife violence in the country, highlighting the need for strict measures to prevent similar incidents. The attack in Solingen has deeply affected the community, with residents and officials coming together to mourn the victims and stand against hatred and violence. Police and authorities continue their efforts to apprehend the perpetrator and ensure the safety and security of the city.
