German interior minister visits Israel for talks with Netanyahu, Katz
German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt went to Israel on Saturday during a surprise visit.
The Minister plans to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Saar on Sunday.
Meetings with the Minister of Defense Israel Katz and the Minister of Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer, are also planned, according to a spokesperson.
“Supporting Israel is to keep discussions on the ground and have an idea of the situation,” said Dobrindt. “I want to show that we support Israel as our closest partner in the fight against terrorism.”
The Minister, who took office in the government of Chancellor Friedrich Merz last month, also wants to benefit from the experience of Israel in military and civil defense. The two belong together, he said.
“Israel is before us, especially in cyber defense and civil protection,” said Dobrindt before the visit. “We also have to adapt more to new threat situations.”
“We will work closely with Israel on this subject,” said the minister. “Germany needs a Cyber-Dome!”
The term refers to a powerful digital shield against spying and sabotage, which would also protect critical infrastructure, such as energy and communication companies.
Dobrindt, of the Christian Social Union (CSU) only in Bavaria, is one of the strongest donors in Israel in the German government.
While Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul criticized the conduct of the Israeli army in Gaza, Dobrindt constantly reiterated his support for Israel against the Palestinian militant group of Hamas.
