In Berlin, authorities have initiated deportation proceedings against four pro-Palestinian activists from Ireland, Poland, and the United States, citing concerns over public safety.

The Berliner Ausländerbehörde has issued a directive for these individuals to leave Germany by April 21, 2025, or face removal by immigration officials.

The deportation orders follow allegations stemming from their involvement in protests opposing Israeli government actions in Gaza.

The accusations against the activists include resisting law enforcement during the dispersal of protests, causing public disorder, making insulting remarks, and using prohibited symbols and slogans, notably the phrase ‘From the River to the Sea.’ Reports indicate that these individuals were involved in significant protest activities, including a sit-in at Berlin's central train station, a street blockade, and an occupation of the Free University of Berlin.

During the latter incident, all four activists were reportedly implicated, with claims of threats made to university staff and damage to property.

Despite these serious allegations, none of the activists have been convicted of any offenses thus far; one case involving accusations of insults resulted in an acquittal.

However, the Landesamt für Einwanderung (LEA) maintains that these activists pose a 'current threat to public safety and order.' The grounds for the deportation are reportedly tied to the view that securing Israel's safety aligns with Germany's national interest.

Internal discussions within the LEA raised concerns regarding the deportation of three EU citizens, due to the heightened legal barriers surrounding the expulsion of such individuals under EU freedom of movement regulations.

Engelhard Mazanke, the head of the LEA's Countercrime and Repatriation department, expressed reservations about the deportation orders, emphasizing the absence of convictions in the pending criminal cases.

Notwithstanding this internal dissent, the Berlin Senate Administration has affirmed its stance, instructing the LEA to proceed with the expulsion orders.

Legal representatives for the activists have characterized the government's actions as alarming and suggestive of a dangerous legal precedent.

Alexander Gorski, an attorney for two of the activists, remarked that the deportation approach resembles tactics employed by extreme right movements, drawing parallels with recent U.S. deportation cases targeting activists critical of Israel.

Gorski also pointed out that, while it is legally permissible to deport non-nationals without a conviction, such actions must adhere to principles of proportionality—a criterion he contends has not been met in these cases.

If executed, the deportation orders will severely impact the lives of the activists.

The American activist, who identifies as transgender, will be barred not only from Germany but from the entire Schengen Area.

The Polish activist is facing deportation to a country she has not resided in since childhood, jeopardizing her established life in Germany over the past several years.