Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt on Wednesday backed Berlin’s decision to revoke the citizenship of a Syrian-born man who expressed support for the Hamas terror organization shortly after being naturalized, Reuters reported.
“People who have acquired German citizenship, including dual nationals, have declared their commitment to our system of values,” said Dobrindt. “If it becomes apparent that this was a deliberate misrepresentation, and that they do not share this system of values ... it should be possible to withdraw citizenship.”
The move follows a tightening of immigration and citizenship laws in Germany amid growing concern over support for Hamas among Middle Eastern migrants.
German media reported that the man, who arrived in Berlin as a child, posted an image to Instagram one day after receiving citizenship. The photo showed two Hamas terrorists with the caption “Heroes of Palestine.” Security agencies flagged the post, and Berlin’s immigration office concluded the man had misled authorities about his loyalty to German values.
The man had previously drawn police attention at pro-Palestinian Arab demonstrations, according to reports.
Germany banned activities of Hamas and affiliated organizations following the group's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
Under Germany’s reformed nationality law, enacted in June 2024, applicants must affirm their commitment to the free democratic order and Germany’s special responsibility to protect Jewish life.
Immigration officials have now informed the man that his German citizenship is being revoked.