A diplomatic storm has erupted following Turkish defender Merih Demiral's controversial celebration during a Euro 2024 match. Demiral, after scoring against Austria, made the 'wolf salute,' a gesture associated with the ultra-nationalist group 'Gray Wolves.' This has led to heightened tensions between Germany and Turkey, with both countries summoning each other's ambassadors.
The 'Gray Wolves' are a far-right group known for their extreme nationalist and anti-Semitic views. In Germany, the group is under surveillance by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. The group's ideology was brought to Germany by Turkish immigrants in the 1970s, and their presence has been growing, with an estimated 18,000 followers in the country.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser condemned the gesture, stating that symbols of the Turkish far-right have no place in German stadiums. UEFA has also launched an investigation into Demiral's actions. In response, Turkey's Foreign Ministry labeled the reaction as xenophobic and defended the gesture as a cultural symbol.
Experts warn that the increasing activity of the 'Gray Wolves' in Germany poses a threat to internal security. The group is known for its violent history and its involvement in criminal activities. There are fears that the tensions could lead to clashes between Turkish right-wing extremists and Kurdish communities in Germany.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has been courting the 'Gray Wolves' in Turkey, is set to visit Berlin for Turkey's match against the Netherlands. This visit is expected to be closely monitored by authorities amid the ongoing controversy.
- The 'Gray Wolves' are not banned in Germany, unlike in France and Austria. The group's supporters in Germany run clubs, organize cultural events, and try to exert political influence. Experts advise German politicians to be cautious of the group's intentions, as they aim to isolate Turkish communities rather than integrate them.
- The 'Gray Wolves' have a significant online presence, spreading nationalist and Islamist propaganda. In Turkey, the group is closely linked to President Erdogan's AKP party and the ultra-nationalist MHP. The group's anti-Zionist and anti-Semitic rhetoric is a core part of their ideology.
- The potential for violence is a serious concern. The 'Gray Wolves' have a history of violent acts, and there are indications of their involvement in drug trafficking and arms smuggling. Experts fear that the group's activities could escalate conflicts between Turkish right-wing extremists and Kurdish communities in Germany.
