AI-based military technologies

Berlin authorities are investigating a suspected arson attack on the premises of Thyssenkrupp Plastics in the Tempelhof district, amid concerns that the incident may be linked to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. According to a report by Spiegel, the police are examining the possibility that the arson was motivated by anti-Israel sentiments.

The fire occurred in the early hours of Monday, 7th October, when unknown individuals entered the grounds of Thyssenkrupp Plastics and set fire to two trucks and a number of wire mesh containers parked at the site. Police reported that one truck was completely destroyed, while the cabin of a second truck and the cargo area of a third were also damaged. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

While the motive for the crime was initially unclear, investigators are now focusing on a letter that appeared online, in which an anonymous group claimed responsibility for the arson. The group cited Thyssenkrupp’s cooperation with Israeli defence companies as the reason for the attack.

The letter accused Thyssenkrupp of profiting from the conflict in Gaza, referring to what it described as a “genocide” being carried out in the region. “The genocide in Gaza shows the reality of AI-based military technologies: tens of thousands of dead, wounded, traumatised, and mutilated civilians and children. Thyssenkrupp profits from this genocide and other wars,” the letter stated.

The authenticity of the letter is currently under investigation by German security services, who are also attempting to determine whether the perpetrators have ties to left-wing extremist groups. The case has raised concerns that the arson may be part of a wider trend of politically motivated violence linked to the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas.