Germany has temporarily blocked arms exports to Israel, pending assurances that the weapons won’t be used against civilians. This decision reflects Berlin’s commitment to international humanitarian law, as similar actions have been taken by other European nations. However, German leaders insist there is no formal arms embargo, and deliveries may resume soon.
Germany Blocks Arms Exports to Israel Over Civilian Use Concerns
Top leaders in the German government have paused arms exports to Israel, demanding assurances that the weapons will not be used against civilians. Despite claims from Berlin that no arms embargo exists, the Federal Security Council, led by senior ministers, has withheld approval for sales until these assurances are provided. This decision aligns with Germany’s War Weapons Control Act, which mandates that arms exports adhere to international humanitarian law.
Legal Concerns Drive Caution in Arms Sales
Germany’s decision to seek guarantees from Israel is driven by concerns over potential legal challenges. The country has faced lawsuits in the past regarding arms exports, and the government wants to avoid any legal action that might result from accusations of civilian harm. Although the government maintains that no genocide is taking place in Gaza, it remains cautious about its military exports.
A Significant Decline in German Arms Sales to Israel
Germany’s arms exports to Israel have significantly decreased in 2024, with only €14.5 million worth of sales approved between January and August, a sharp decline compared to the previous year. The majority of these exports have been non-lethal military equipment like helmets and protective vests. Since March, no war weapons have been exported to Israel, contrasting with 2023, when arms sales surged following a Hamas attack on Israeli settlements.
European Nations Follow Suit in Arms Export Restrictions
Germany’s cautious stance mirrors similar actions taken by other European governments. French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently called for halting arms deliveries that could be used in Gaza. The UK has also suspended certain arms sales to Israel, while the U.S. paused the delivery of heavy bombs. Despite these restrictions, both the U.S. and the UK continue to support Israel’s defense through other means, including missile defense systems.
Scholz Signals Resumption of Arms Exports
Despite the current hold on arms sales, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reassured lawmakers that weapons deliveries to Israel would resume soon. Scholz highlighted Germany’s continued support for Israel, though legal and administrative concerns remain a key factor in the delay. The reduction in arms sales has also been attributed to Germany’s focus on rearming its own military and supplying weapons to Ukraine.
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