Security expert Professor Peter Neumann, a specialist in security studies at King’s College London, has cautioned about the potential implications of Iranian espionage surrounding Berlin Justice Senator Felor Badenberg, citing several factors contributing to her current situation.
Speaking to the “Tagesspiegel”, Neumann stated that Iran is among the nations most actively conducting espionage within Germany, alongside China and Russia. He highlighted that Badenberg’s Iranian heritage, combined with her previous significant role at Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and her now being considered for a leadership position, likely places her under increased scrutiny.
Neumann explained that members of the Iranian diaspora have consistently been targets of Iranian intelligence operations. The case, he argues, also underscores the challenges faced by regional authorities in addressing cybersecurity threats, serving as a reminder to prioritize the issue due to its potentially dangerous consequences.
He further noted the considerable overseas activity of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, revealing that approximately ten attempted attacks were recorded across Europe last year, including within Germany. These actions, according to Neumann, are not solely directed at dissidents, but also extend to targeting Jewish communities.
