Germany’s new chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to tighten immigration by suspending family reunification for Syrians with subsidiary protection, amid far-right pressure and support for Syria’s reconstruction.

Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has officially classified the far-right AfD party as a proven right-wing extremist organization, marking the most serious step yet in Berlin’s efforts to contain the rising political force.

Amid global geopolitical turmoil and its drive to become a leading military power, the German military has received the green light in recent weeks for a massive arms buildup.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz looks set to become Germany’s next chancellor, amid complex challenges and growing political polarization over immigration, the economy and foreign policy.