Germany's Merz attacks AfD in stormy debate after far-right election win

In a heated session of the German Bundestag, Chancellor Friedrich Merz engaged in a sharp confrontation with Alternative for Germany (AfD) leader Alice Weidel. The debate, which followed recent electoral gains by the far-right party, centered on the government's migration policies and the broader direction of German social policy.

During the exchange, Chancellor Merz leveled a severe critique against the AfD's platform, characterizing their proposed migration policies as detrimental to the nation's economic stability. Merz argued that the party's rhetoric and policy goals regarding foreign-born skilled workers effectively amounted to a form of ethnic cleansing, a charge that drew immediate and vocal pushback from the AfD benches.

The clash underscores the deepening polarization within the German legislature as mainstream parties grapple with the rising influence of the far-right. Analysts suggest that the intensity of the debate reflects growing anxiety among traditional political factions regarding the AfD's ability to shape public discourse and influence regional governance.

As the political landscape in Germany continues to evolve, the confrontation highlights the challenges facing the current administration in maintaining a consensus on migration and labor market integration. Observers expect further parliamentary friction as both sides prepare for upcoming legislative cycles and continued public scrutiny over the country's demographic and economic future.