BILD, a tabloid known for its anti-Assad stance, seemed unexpectedly shocked by the clear display of disdain for women during German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock’s visit to Damascus.
They were particularly outraged by the refusal of Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new ruler of Syria, to shake Baerbock’s hand during a state reception at the People’s Palace. The headline read, “Because she is a woman!” highlighting the snub.
Abou Mohammed al-Joulani, Syria's top Islamic terrorist, refuses to shake hands with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock because she is a woman. pic.twitter.com/ZjdfMEU62U
— RadioGenoa (@RadioGenoa) January 3, 2025
However, as the report points out, al-Sharaa had no problem shaking hands with Baerbock’s French counterparts, which only added to the puzzling nature of the situation. The former al-Qaeda affiliate, now the leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), greeted Baerbock with an oddly stiff gesture, placing his hand on his chest rather than offering a handshake. At the airport, HTS officials also declined to extend a handshake, opting instead for a dismissive bow.
What’s truly perplexing, the article suggests, is how these multicultural enthusiasts in Germany remain so taken aback by such open displays of disrespect toward women. The tabloid insinuates that, back home in Germany, women face even worse treatment, particularly in multicultural settings where issues like gang rapes are all too common. The report also recalled a similar embarrassing moment for Baerbock at the Turkish Presidential Palace almost four years ago, where her attire also sparked controversy.
