German Parliament expands intelligence agency powers for covert operations

The German Bundestag approved a bill on November 13, 2026, to expand the powers of intelligence agencies to conduct covert operations. This new legislation permits agencies to engage in activities including sabotage and cyberattacks. The reforms respond to increasing threats from Russia, which include shadow warfare involving drones and disinformation.

Expanded agency capabilities

Under the new legislation, the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) may potentially respond to threats with its own sabotage and cyber operations. Previously, the roles of these intelligence agencies were limited primarily to information gathering and analysis. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) will also receive expanded powers to act as a true intelligence service. These expanded powers for the BfV include increased capabilities for data interception and storage.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt stated that Germany has become a theater for terrorism, extremism, and foreign powers. Martin Jaeger, the Head of the BND, noted that Moscow is waging a shadow war against Germany using drones, espionage, and sabotage. The reforms are being implemented as Germany seeks to strengthen its intelligence capabilities against potential military attacks and increasing Russian threats.

Oversight and prohibitions

The legislation includes the proposed establishment of an independent oversight council to monitor the activities of the intelligence agencies. While the agencies gain new operational tools, the legislation explicitly prohibits the use of lethal force by these agencies. This distinction separates the new covert capabilities from traditional military or police combat actions.

The expansion of powers has met with criticism from some political figures. Clara Bongh, a Member of the Die Linke party, said that Alexander Dobrindt is creating a new German secret police. Critics argue the reforms may weaken privacy protections and enable mass surveillance. Conversely, supporters claim oversight remains strict and aligns with the standards of other European democracies.

The legislative changes represent a significant shift in German security policy. The move aims to address modern hybrid threats that fall outside the traditional scope of information gathering. By allowing the BND and the BfV to move beyond analysis into active operations, the German government intends to create a more proactive defense against foreign interference and shadow warfare.

Glossary

• Federal Intelligence Service (BND) — The Federal Intelligence Service (BND) is a German intelligence agency. Its role is roughly equivalent to the CIA in the United States.
• Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) — The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) is Germany's domestic intelligence agency.
• Die Linke — Die Linke is a German political party. It is a member of the Party of the European Left (EL).
• hybrid threats — Hybrid threats are challenges that operate in a grey area between peace and violence. They operate below the official threshold of war.