Schnedlitz calls for resignation: ÖVP ignorance endangers our security!

Schnedlitz calls for resignation: ÖVP ignorance endangers our security!

In the midst of the currently increased terror alert level in Austria, FPÖ General Secretary Michael Schnedlitz sharply criticized Interior Minister Gerhard Karner (ÖVP). He accuses Karner of trivializing the serious threat and calls on him to resign. This warning level is the second highest in Austria and makes the detailed security precautions all the more urgent. Schnedlitz described Karner's proposal to increase police presence as a mockery, while at the same time police hours are being cut nationwide and cuts are being made to the executive branch OTS reported.

Schnedlitz pointed out that Austria's Interior Minister was not only putting public safety at risk, but was also continuing to inadequately combat political Islam. He formulated a clear plan for a law banning political Islam, but does not expect support from the ÖVP. Given the current threat level, he wonders how many more attacks will have to occur before the government is ready to approve the law.

Changes in law regarding surveillance and security situation

In connection with the security situation, Karner has also called for a change in the law regarding the monitoring of WhatsApp messages. Austria is currently the only EU country where this type of surveillance is not permitted. Karner argues that this measure is necessary to monitor the communications of potential attackers. He is in negotiations with Justice Minister Alma Zadic (Greens) to implement these changes, which intensifies the discussion about the protection of personal data and the need to protect people, such as ORF added.

Karner also condemns an anti-Semitic incident in Vienna in which the Israeli flag was torn down from the Vienna City Temple. He promised to identify the perpetrators and increase security measures. This also includes expanded property protection for the Vienna City Temple, which is carried out in close consultation with the Jewish Community.

Geopolitical challenges and extremism

The current geopolitical situation contributes to radicalization and polarization in Austria. In its current report, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution highlights that an increase in extremist activities in the areas of right-wing extremism, left-wing extremism and Islamist extremism was recorded in 2023. The five central challenges that Interior Minister Karner has identified are: Islamist extremism, new and old anti-Semitism, new and old right-wing extremism, espionage and disinformation, and violent and radical climate activists. These circumstances highlight the need for targeted monitoring of modern communication channels, including messenger services BMI reported.

But despite these challenges, the FPÖ remains skeptical about the government's measures. However, the increasingly tense security situation requires decisive action, which both Schnedlitz and many other political actors are demanding. The pressure on Interior Minister Karner is growing, while citizens want security and preventive strategies in the fight against extremism.