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A group of seven people allegedly belonging to the left-wing extremist organization Antifa Ost began their trial on this week, accused for violent actions against far-right activists that earned them the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

Global terrorist designation and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the United States classified the organization as a terrorist group along with several other left-wing extremist and anarchist groups.

Authorities in Germany state the network was behind attacks on locations in Germany and neighboring Hungary between 2018 and 2023. Included in the allegations is the multiple attacks of a restaurant owner in central Thuringia, whose venue was known as a meeting point for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are allegedly accused of employing hammers against presumed rightwing extremists, leaving some severely injured.

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is expected to run until July 2026 in the city of Dresden, Germany. Two defendants, named as Johann G. and Paul M, also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during February 2023, around an yearly gathering called the “day of honor” that draws far-right participants from throughout the continent.

In a related case, a different German individual, Maja T., is facing trial in Hungary for multiple charges of attempted assault against neo-Nazis prior to the same rally in 2023.

Regional context and organizational structure

The former East Germany has long been a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth organizations, as well as the often militant anti-fascist networks that counter them.

Authorities characterize Johann G as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, responsible for organizing violent acts and recruiting accomplices.

Together with Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where leftwing extremists trained in fighting methods and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the group reportedly stockpiled hammers, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.

Previous convictions and international reactions

A different activist formerly involved with the group, Lina E., emerged as a cause celebre within certain radical left communities following her conviction in 2023 for targeting suspected right-wing individuals.

America's terrorist listing makes group members ineligible to enter the US, blocks financial holdings they could possess within the American economy and criminalizes providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany applauded the US decision and urged the German administration to take similar action. However, the country's diplomatic office simply stated it had “acknowledged” of the American classification.

“The threat posed by the organization has substantially diminished lately. Key leaders and most aggressive participants have already been convicted or are in custody.”

Interior ministry representative