Martin Jäger officially assumes the position as the fresh president of the Federal Intelligence Service, known as BND.

In a significant shift for Germany's security landscape, Martin Jäger has assumed the role of President of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) on September 15, 2025. Jäger succeeds Dr. Bruno Kahl, who served as BND President for over nine years before his ambassadorial assignment in Rome.

Jäger's extensive professional experience, which includes positions as State Secretary in the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and Ambassador in Kabul, Baghdad, and most recently Kyiv (Ukraine), makes him well-equipped to lead the BND in its current demanding role.

Thorsten Frei, Chancellor's Office Chief and Coordinator for Intelligence Services, has expressed that Jäger's appointment is a significant gain, given the tense security political situation. The BND's role in Germany's security has never been more crucial than it is now.

Under Dr. Kahl's leadership, the BND has proven to be a vital component of Germany's security infrastructure. The agency has demonstrated its indispensable role in Germany's security, becoming an integral part of the country's security architecture. The BND, under Kahl's leadership, has also shown its effectiveness, serving as an early warning system and information provider for the federal government.

The speaker's statement underscores the importance of the BND in the current security political situation. With Jäger at the helm, the BND is perfectly positioned to meet its current demands. The new president is expected to ensure that the BND operates as an equal partner with other Western services.

Dr. Kahl's tenure as BND President is marked by his significant contributions to Germany's security. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping the BND into a robust and reliable intelligence agency. As he moves on to serve as the Federal Republic of Germany's ambassador to the Holy See in Rome, Kahl leaves behind a legacy of excellence and commitment to Germany's security.

The BND's work as an information provider and early warning system is more crucial to the federal government than ever before. The demands on the BND are higher than ever, and Jäger's appointment is expected to further strengthen the BND's international position.

As Jäger takes office, he inherits a BND that has been honed and refined under Kahl's leadership. The new president is poised to lead the BND into a new era, ensuring that it continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining Germany's security.