Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivers remarks at a Munich synagogue marking the 88th anniversary of Kristallnacht, saying Germany is facing a “historic test” over rising antisemitism. Several outlets frame the anniversary as a violent pogrom against Jewish people in Nazi Germany and Austria that preceded the Holocaust.

Merz says his government is committed to protecting Jewish life, presenting antisemitism as a current and ongoing threat. Reuters-linked reporting adds that his speech highlights the visible security measures now used to protect Jewish sites, describing kindergartens and synagogues protected with bulletproof glass and armed police.

Some coverage also connects the speech to Germany’s broader stance towards Israel. One outlet specifically notes Merz reaffirming longstanding support for Israel, while others focus more directly on protection of Germany’s Jewish community and the scale of today’s antisemitism.