A German court in Stuttgart began proceedings Monday against five activists accused of inflicting approximately $1.2 million in damages to an Israeli defense contractor’s facility, according to court officials.
The defendants, ranging in age from 25 to 40, allegedly broke into the company’s premises in Ulm and destroyed office equipment, measurement tools, and windows while chanting pro-Palestinian slogans, prosecutors stated.
Court documents indicate the accused individuals operated under the banner of “Palestine Action Germany,” an organization that subsequently released video footage taking credit for the destructive incident.
The group of defendants includes citizens from Ireland, Britain, Spain, and Germany, though their identities have not been disclosed by authorities.
Multiple German media sources, including Stuttgarter Zeitung newspaper and SWR broadcasting, reported that the targeted facility belongs to Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense electronics manufacturer.
Elbit Systems, which maintains operations in Ulm, has not yet provided a statement regarding the incident. While the court declined to specifically name Elbit as the victim in this case, officials noted that “Palestine Action” organizations had previously targeted the company during 2024.
Incidents targeting Jewish individuals and institutions have increased globally since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023, following Hamas-led attacks on Israel and the resulting Israeli military response.
Court officials confirmed that Monday’s proceedings were conducted under heightened security measures at the Stuttgart courthouse.
The court has previously announced that more than twelve additional hearings are planned for this case, extending through the end of July.
