Michael Kuenne at The Times of Israel

Michael Kuenne is a regular contributor to The Times of Israel, where he writes opinion and analysis on antisemitism, terrorism, extremism, Israel, European politics, and the challenges facing Jewish communities in the twenty-first century. His articles draw on firsthand reporting, interviews with diplomats, public officials, security experts, educators, and community leaders, as well as his experience covering breaking news and political developments across Germany and Europe.

His commentary argues that democratic societies should confront antisemitism and political extremism with greater consistency and moral clarity while defending Israel's right to exist and protect its citizens.

Op-Ed: 20 Years of Berlin's Holocaust Memorial

Published in The Times of Israel

In this reflective opinion essay, Michael Kuenne examines the twentieth anniversary of Berlin's Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, exploring its enduring significance as one of the world's most powerful places of Holocaust remembrance. The article considers how the memorial has shaped Germany's culture of memory, confronted historical responsibility, and challenged generations to preserve the truth of the Holocaust in an era of rising antisemitism and historical distortion.

Drawing on historical context, personal reflection, and contemporary developments, the essay argues that remembrance is not a passive act of looking backward but an active responsibility carried by every generation. It explores why preserving the integrity of Holocaust memory remains essential to defending democratic values and ensuring that the lessons of history are neither forgotten nor manipulated.

Featured Op-Ed: There Is No Holocaust in Gaza

Published in The Times of Israel
Featured on the Front Page as a "Top Op-Ed"

In this opinion essay, Michael Kuenne examines the growing use of Holocaust comparisons in discussions surrounding the war in Gaza, arguing that equating the conflict with the Holocaust distorts historical reality and diminishes the singular nature of one of history's greatest atrocities. The article explores how such comparisons influence public discourse, shape international narratives, and contribute to the erosion of historical understanding at a time of rising global antisemitism.

Drawing on historical context and contemporary political debate, the essay argues that preserving the integrity of Holocaust remembrance is essential, not only out of respect for its victims and survivors, but also to ensure that history is neither politicized nor used as a rhetorical instrument in modern conflicts.

Featured Op-Ed: You Don't Compare Gaza to Auschwitz. Ever.

Published in The Times of Israel
Featured on the Front Page as a "Top Op-Ed"

In this opinion essay, Michael Kuenne examines the growing use of Holocaust comparisons in contemporary political discourse, arguing that equating the war in Gaza with Auschwitz fundamentally distorts historical reality and diminishes the unique significance of the Holocaust. The article explores how such comparisons have entered political debate, social media, and public activism, and why historical precision remains essential when discussing one of history's greatest crimes.

Drawing on historical context and contemporary examples, the piece argues that preserving the integrity of Holocaust remembrance is not only a matter of historical accuracy but also a moral responsibility in an era of rising antisemitism.

Featured Op-Ed: Defending Jewish Life in Germany Made Him a Target

Published in The Times of Israel
Featured Article

This reported opinion piece examines the attempted killing of Hudhaifa Al-Mashhadani, an Iraqi-born educator in Berlin whose outspoken support for Jewish life, Holocaust education, and coexistence made him the target of political violence. Through firsthand reporting, interviews, and on-the-ground documentation, the article follows the escalation from threats and intimidation to a violent attack on a Berlin subway platform.

Beyond one individual's story, the article explores the broader challenges facing those who publicly confront antisemitism in Germany. It examines how intimidation, political polarization, and institutional hesitation can leave educators, activists, and community leaders increasingly vulnerable while highlighting the importance of defending democratic values and protecting those who speak out against hatred.