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Seven individuals accused of being the left-wing extremist organization Antifa Ost began their trial on this week, accused for attacks targeting rightwing extremists that resulted in the moniker “Hammer Gang”.

International terror listing and prosecution case

Earlier this month, the US government classified Antifa Ost as a terrorist group together with several other European far-left and anarchist networks.

Authorities in Germany state the network was behind targeting locations in the country and neighboring Hungary from 2018 through 2023. Among the incidents is the repeated targeting of a restaurant owner in Thuringia, whose venue was known as a gathering spot for far-right supporters.

Some suspects are said to have employing hammers against suspected far-right members, causing several with serious injuries.

Court proceedings and cross-border allegations

Court proceedings involving seven defendants is scheduled to continue until mid-2026 in the eastern city of Dresden. A pair of suspects, identified as Johann G. and Paul M, also face charges for attacks in the Hungarian capital during early 2023, coinciding with an yearly gathering known as the “day of honor” that attracts far-right participants from throughout the continent.

Separately, a different German individual, Maja T, is facing trial in Hungary for four counts of attempted assault against far-right activists prior to the same rally in that year.

Historical background and organizational structure

Eastern Germany has historically served as a hotbed for both far-right and anti-immigration youth groups, as well as the often militant antifascist groups that oppose them.

Prosecutors describe Johann G as a senior figure within Antifa Ost, responsible for planning attacks and bringing in new members.

Alongside Paul M., he is alleged to have arranged training sessions where radical left activists practised combat techniques and simulated violent actions. In storage facilities managed by the suspect, the group allegedly accumulated tools, irritant sprays, disguises and communication devices.

Prior legal cases and international reactions

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

The US designation renders organization affiliates ineligible to enter the US, blocks financial holdings they may have within the American economy and makes it illegal providing material support to them.

Germany's far-right AfD party welcomed the US decision and called on the German administration to take similar action. In contrast, the German foreign ministry simply stated it had “taken note” of the American classification.

“The danger from the organization has substantially diminished lately. The ringleaders and most aggressive participants have already been convicted or are in custody.”

Government spokesperson