Germany steps up protection amid possible Iranian retaliation

German authorities and security services are warning of possible Iranian retaliatory actions in Europe. On Sunday, 1 March 2026, Chancellor Friedrich Merz convened a security meeting with the services to discuss implications for Germany’s internal security. Domestic intelligence assessed that the threat level has risen for Israeli and Jewish institutions and communities, as well as for sites linked to the United States. The Office for the Protection of the Constitution identified diplomatic missions and military facilities among potential targets.

The services said Jewish public institutions, including schools and synagogues, could also be targeted. Officials said Iranian intelligence is monitoring selected demonstrations in Germany. Marc Henrichmann, chair of the parliamentary intelligence oversight committee, said Iranian retaliation cannot be ruled out in Europe. Federal and regional authorities reported an increase in protective measures, including in North Rhine-Westphalia. In recent days, demonstrations by Iranian opposition groups took place in Germany, with thousands of participants.

Friedrich Merz. Photo: Steffen Prößdorf / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)