Schoenau ultimatum

Bahnhof Marchegg Gleisanlagen Alt

== Schoenau Ultimatum ==

The Schoenau Ultimatum was a significant diplomatic event that took place during the Cold War. It involved a standoff between the Austrian government and the Soviet Union over the issue of Jewish emigration from the Soviet Union to Israel.

Background

In the early 1970s, the Soviet Union imposed severe restrictions on the emigration of its Jewish citizens. This policy led to international protests and diplomatic pressure from various countries, including Austria. The Austrian government, led by Chancellor Bruno Kreisky, played a crucial role in facilitating the transit of Soviet Jews through Austria on their way to Israel.

The Ultimatum

The crisis reached a peak in September 1973, when a group of Soviet Jews was taken hostage by Palestinian terrorists at the Schönau Castle transit camp in Austria. The terrorists demanded the closure of the transit camp and the cessation of Jewish emigration through Austria. In response, Chancellor Kreisky issued an ultimatum to the Soviet Union, demanding that they take responsibility for the safety of the hostages and ensure the continuation of the emigration process.

Resolution

The situation was resolved when the Soviet Union agreed to the demands, and the hostages were released. The transit camp at Schönau Castle was eventually closed, but the emigration of Soviet Jews continued through other routes. The Schoenau Ultimatum highlighted the complex interplay of international diplomacy, human rights, and Cold War politics.

Impact

The Schoenau Ultimatum had a lasting impact on Austrian-Soviet relations and the broader context of Jewish emigration from the Soviet Union. It also underscored the role of smaller nations like Austria in influencing global events during the Cold War.

See Also

• Cold War
• Jewish emigration from the Soviet Union
• Bruno Kreisky
• Schönau Castle
• Palestinian terrorism