Munich Shows Solidarity After Attack on Israeli Restaurant: ‘The Support Gives Us Strength’
Munich, April 13 – In the wake of an attack on the Israeli restaurant Eclipse in the Maxvorstadt district, hundreds of Munich residents have shown overwhelming solidarity with the establishment and its operators. The incident, which occurred on Friday night, involved unknown perpetrators damaging the restaurant’s windows and throwing fireworks inside. Police are investigating the incident as potentially antisemitic. Grigori Dratva, one of the Eclipse operators, expressed his gratitude on Sunday, stating, “The support gives us a lot of strength; it’s deeply moving.”
Attack Details and Initial Response
The attack took place after closing hours on Thursday night. Residents in Heßstraße reported hearing three loud bangs around 12:45 AM and alerted the police. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident. The shattered windowpanes, now temporarily patched, are adorned with bouquets of flowers from neighbors and patrons, symbolizing a defiant gesture against the destruction. Investigators are currently operating under the assumption of an antisemitic motive.
Global Outpouring of Support
Despite initial fears that the attack might deter customers, Dratva noted, “We are not experiencing any decline; we are well-attended.” Since the incident, the restaurant has been inundated with calls, emails, and visits from people offering encouragement. “We can’t keep up with responding to all the emails, calls, and messages. Messages have even come from Israel and India,” Dratva added, highlighting the widespread nature of the support.
Community Gathers for Solidarity Rally
On Friday afternoon, hundreds of Munich residents gathered at the scene of the attack to express their solidarity. Among those present were the future mayor Dominik Krause, several city councillors, and Charlotte Knobloch, President of the Jewish Community of Munich and Upper Bavaria. Krause had previously expressed his dismay on Instagram, calling an antisemitic motive “unbearable.” He added, “I hope that the perpetrators will soon be caught and that the urban society will move even closer together in the fight against antisemitism.”
Voices of Support at the Rally
Speakers at the spontaneous rally included organizer and university professor Guy Katz, Mona Fuchs of the Green Party, and cabaret artist Christian Springer. Knobloch emphasized the importance of not feeling alone in such times. Katz, who initially registered 300 participants, estimated that over 500 people attended, despite the short notice. Residents from neighboring buildings also showed their support by looking down from their windows, with one group holding a sign that read “Neighborhood against Antisemitism.” Dratva also mentioned receiving numerous cards from neighbors, some signed by all residents of a building, underscoring the strong community cohesion.
Impact on the Community and Ongoing Investigation
The incident has garnered international attention, underscoring the seriousness of the attack. While the immediate focus is on supporting the affected restaurant and its staff, the police investigation continues to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The city’s swift and unified response demonstrates a strong stance against antisemitism and a commitment to protecting its diverse communities. The outpouring of support from both local residents and the global community serves as a powerful message of resilience and unity in the face of hatred.
New City District Newsletters Launched
In related news, tz.de is expanding its local coverage with new city district newsletters. These newsletters will provide updates on various Munich districts, including those in the southwest and city center, starting April 16. This initiative aims to keep residents informed about local developments and community events, further strengthening local ties.
