German interior minister upgrades terror threat to high, warns attacks could come 'at any time'

Threat level upgrade

Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told Welt am Sonntag that a surge in intelligence reports forced him to reclassify Germany's security posture. He moved the threat from an abstract warning to a high threat, meaning attacks could happen at any moment.

The increased volume of reports and intelligence has prompted me to classify the previously described abstract threat as a high threat.

That means Germany must expect the risk of attacks at any time.

Recognizable attack plans

Dobrindt said attack plans against the country are clearly recognizable. They are directed not only at German infrastructure but also at individuals and institutions, though he did not disclose specific targets or groups.

Intelligence reform on the table

The cabinet is scheduled to debate a sweeping reform of intelligence laws on August 13. The changes would explicitly allow domestic agencies to intervene directly in dangerous situations instead of limiting their role to collecting and assessing information.

My goal is to develop the intelligence services into genuine secret services so that we remain competitive and capable of working as partners with friendly services abroad.

In an acute terrorism scenario, the expanded powers could let domestic intelligence officers enter and search homes when police are unable to arrive in time. Dobrindt also said that in counter-espionage or thwarting attacks, it may be necessary to deliberately alter information to disrupt plans.

Safeguards and limits

A new independent control council would have to approve any direct intervention measures in advance. Dobrindt stressed that the separation between intelligence agencies and the police would remain intact.

Arresting people remains the responsibility of the police.

What comes next

The August 13 cabinet session will be the first formal step toward enacting the reform. If approved, the law would mark a significant shift in Germany's post-war framework that keeps intelligence gathering and law enforcement strictly apart.