Germany Honors Knife Attack Victims Amid Renewed Immigration Debate

German leaders paid tribute to victims of the August 23 knife attack in Solingen, which has reignited immigration issues. The incident led to new knife restrictions and deportation measures. President Steinmeier emphasized the need to protect refugees while controlling immigration numbers. The attack also recalls a tragic 1993 firebombing.

German leaders paid tribute on Sunday to the three people killed in the August 23 knife attack by a suspected Islamic extremist, which has brought immigration back to the forefront of the nation's political discussion.

The attack wounded eight others at a "Festival of Diversity" celebrating Solingen's 650th anniversary. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed relief that none of the injured are in serious danger.

The 26-year-old Syrian suspect, who missed deportation to Bulgaria last year, was detained a day after the crime. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's administration has since proposed new knife laws and measures to streamline deportations, including the recent return of Afghan nationals.

"It is a horrifying crime that unites us today, perpetrated by an individual who abused the protection offered by our nation," Steinmeier said at the memorial, attended by Scholz and senior officials. He affirmed Germany's commitment to asylum while stressing the importance of managing entry rules.

The Solingen assault also evokes memories of a 1993 racist firebombing that killed five Turkish women and girls. "Why always Solingen?" lamented Mayor Tim Kurzbach.

(With inputs from agencies.)