Germany’s federal states have put forward an initiative to make the public denial of Israel’s right to exist a criminal offense. Spiegel reports this.

The corresponding proposal, submitted by the federal state of Hesse, received the support of a majority in the Bundesrat. The bill is now to be considered by the Bundestag after the summer recess.

According to the initiative, individuals who publicly or during gatherings deny the right of the State of Israel to exist or call for its destruction may be sentenced to up to five years in prison or a fine.

At the same time, criminal liability will arise only in cases where such actions are carried out in a manner capable of “encouraging a willingness to commit antisemitic acts of violence or arbitrary acts.”

Hesse’s Justice Minister Christian Heinz emphasized that the bill is not directed against freedom of speech or criticism of the policies of the Israeli government.

“The proposed amendment is legally justified and politically necessary,” he said.

After the vote, Heinz noted that the initiative should serve as a signal to Germany’s Jewish community.

“As of today, an important signal is being sent to all Jews in our country: we want and will better protect Jewish life in Germany,” the minister said.