Army chief wants all youth to be screened for draft – DW – 11/03/2025

Investigators in Berlin are searching for more leads following the arrest of a 22-year-old Syrian man accused of planning a bomb attack.

Prosecutors said electronic storage devices and other materials seized during searches at three locations in the city were being analyzed. “The next step is an evaluation of the electronic data and remaining evidence,” said Michael Petzold, a spokesman for the prosecutor’s office.

The suspect was arrested on Saturday and has been in pre-trial detention since Sunday evening, accused of preparing a serious act of violence threatening the state. Authorities said he had obtained parts for a homemade explosive or incendiary device, though details about the possible target were unclear.

The man came to the attention of investigators for sharing Islamic State propaganda on social media, including jihadist songs and hymns. Prosecutors have also accused him of spreading material that is unconstitutional and from terrorist organizations.

Speculation that the Berlin Christmas market may have been targeted has not been confirmed. Petzold said the investigation is exploring all possibilities.

The case has reignited political debate over deportations to Syria. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt has said his aim is to reach an agreement with Damascus this year to enable the return of criminals and rejected asylum seekers. Conservative Christian Democrat lawmaker Günter Krings called for the prompt deportation of convicted terrorists, saying that those who plan attacks “lose their right to stay.”

The head of Germany’s armed forces has rejected the idea of ​​a draft lottery in the ongoing debate over reintroducing military service, saying all young men should undergo an assessment to determine eligibility.

General Inspector Carsten Brauer told Germany’s RND media group that, from a military perspective, it was necessary to screen entire age groups. “That’s when we know who’s available in the defensive positions and who we can call on – who we want to stop,” he said.

Breuer argued that drawing lots after screening would lead to recruitment by chance rather than by motivation, making training less effective. If not enough volunteers come forward, he said the Bundeswehr should select those who are “particularly qualified and motivated”, targeting skills such as IT expertise rather than relying on random selection.

He said a voluntary model would likely attract more recruits, provided the service is seen as meaningful and attractive.

The Bundestag is currently debating a new military service law. Within the ruling coalition, there remains disagreement over what steps to take if voluntary recruitment fails to meet personnel needs.

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Adding his voice to the ongoing debate, the head of Germany’s armed forces has rejected the idea of ​​using a lottery to restart military service.

Inspector General Carsten Breuer said all youth must first be assessed for eligibility.

Breuer said that amid the growing threat from Russia, it is important to screen full age groups to know who can serve when needed.

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