Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has called for the establishment of a national “cyber dome” inspired by Israeli digital defences, citing the need for stronger protection against online threats and sabotage.
Speaking to Bild on Sunday following his visit to Israel, Dobrindt praised West Jerusalem’s advanced civil defence capabilities. His remarks came just days after Israel concluded a 12-day military confrontation with Iran. Dobrindt said Germany must enhance its ability to guard key infrastructure such as energy and communication networks.
“We will work closely with Israel on this,” he said. “Germany needs a cyber dome – a powerful, digital shield against espionage, sabotage, and to protect critical infrastructure.” While he did not offer detailed plans, his use of the phrase “cyber dome” appeared to echo Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system, adapted in concept for the digital realm.
Alexander Dobrindt’s comments follow a report recently released by Germany’s Federal Crime Office (BKA), that reveals record rise in cybercrimes in 2024.
Over 131,000 cases were documented, with pro-Russian and anti-Israeli hacktivist groups blamed for a spike in denial-of-service attacks against both public institutions and private firms.
The German government, under Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has pledged strong support for Israel following its latest clash with Iran. Merz recently described Israel’s military actions as “doing dirty work for us,” suggesting they help prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The conflict between Israel and Iran involved extensive long-range missile strikes. Israeli officials estimate direct damages of around $3 billion. Iran, meanwhile, has accused Israel of violating international law and claimed it acted in self-defence during its retaliatory attacks.
Germany’s new administration, which took office in May, has significantly shifted its defence priorities. Last week, the Merz government approved a budget that includes heavy new borrowing aimed at sharply increasing military expenditure, with defence spending set to double by 2029.
Berlin has defended the investment as necessary to deter a potential Russian attack on NATO, although Moscow has dismissed the scenario as implausible.
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