The overhaul allows German services to disrupt certain foreign threats directly, while critics warn that surveillance and intervention powers may test constitutional limits

BERLIN — International News Service – Germany’s parliament has approved a major intelligence overhaul that would allow federal agencies to take a more active role against cyberattacks, sabotage and other threats linked to foreign powers.

The Bundestag passed the legislation by 308 votes to 190, with 71 abstentions. Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s governing Christian Democratic and Social Democratic parties supported the measure.

The reform expands the authority of the Federal Intelligence Service, known as the BND, and the domestic Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution. Under defined circumstances, the BND could enter foreign computer systems, disable servers used by state-backed hackers or interfere with infrastructure supporting an imminent attack.

Government officials say Germany has become a target for espionage, sabotage, disinformation and cyber operations, particularly from Russia, China and Iran. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt described the legislation as a generational reform intended to put German agencies on a stronger footing with their international counterparts.

The package also restructures legal oversight, bringing important review functions under the Independent Control Council. Parliament adopted a separate resolution calling for stronger information and inspection rights for its intelligence oversight body.

The expansion has drawn objections from opposition lawmakers and civil-liberties advocates. Critics argue that some provisions are too broad, weaken protections for personal information or leave insufficient safeguards around covert intervention. Supporters contend that existing laws were designed for an earlier security environment and left agencies unable to respond quickly to modern threats.

The parliamentary vote represents a significant shift for a country whose postwar intelligence system was deliberately constrained. Its practical effect will depend on how agencies interpret the new thresholds and how courts and oversight bodies police their use.

Sources: German Bundestag; German government briefing