The German domestic intelligence service said Friday it has classified the Alternative for Germany party, which placed second in national elections in February, as a “right-wing extremist" organization — making it subject to greater and broader surveillance of its activities.

Germany's domestic intelligence service has classified the popular Alternative for Germany party as "extremist," allowing for close surveillance of the group.

The designation is certain to inflame debates over whether the party should be banned, though some polls show it to be the most popular in the country.