In a recent interview, Tawfik B. revealed that he had a normal conversation with his son Abdul Ballout on the day of the attack, describing him as ‘generous, emotional, and loving.’ Despite their family’s moderate Shiite background, Tawfik expressed disbelief at his son’s actions, attributing them to ‘brainwashing.’ Abdul Ballout, previously involved in violent incidents and radical ideologies, had attempted to join the Islamic State but was apprehended in Lebanon. Following his return to Germany, he was sentenced to 22 months for preparing a serious violent crime, with a decision on probation pending.