What it is about
Germany has temporarily suspended the approval of new weapons exports to Israel due to ongoing legal disputes over humanitarian law concerns. This move follows a significant rise in German arms exports to Israel last year.
Why it matters
The halt in arms export approvals marks a critical moment in Germany-Israel relations, especially as Israel finds itself in an ongoing conflict with Hamas. Weapons from Germany have significantly supported Israel’s defense capabilities, crucial in its fight against terrorism and in the safeguarding of its civilian population.
State of Approvals
Last year saw a ten-fold rise in approved arms exports to Israel, amounting to 326.5 million euros ($363.5 million). However, in 2023, approvals significantly decreased to only 14.5 million euros ($16.1 million) in total, with a substantially lower portion classified under “weapons of war.”
Tracing Legal Challenges
A source close to the Economy Ministry revealed that a senior government official had halted the approval process, citing concerns over potential breaches of humanitarian law. These concerns are amidst ongoing legal battles both internationally and domestically.
Hamas Terror Attacks
On October 7, Hamas executed a catastrophic cross-border attack on southern Israel, leading to approximately 1,200 civilian fatalities and the abduction of 251 people to Gaza. Israel responded with military actions aimed at dismantling Hamas’ infrastructure and rescuing the hostages.
Humanitarian Crisis
Hamas claims over 40,000 deaths in Gaza, though these numbers are unverifiable and do not distinguish between civilians and militants. Israel asserts having eliminated around 17,000 militants and continues to highlight Hamas’ use of civilians as human shields, which is part of their strategy that endangers non-combatants, firing from areas like homes, hospitals, and schools.
Global Ramifications
This arms export suspension from Germany underscores the growing tension within its government. While Chancellor’s office supports Israel steadfastly, the Greens-led Economy and Foreign Ministries face pressure from their party members to criticize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration.
Despite legal challenges across Europe, many allies of Israel reassess their arms deals. Recently, the UK suspended part of their arms export licenses to Israel, raising similar humanitarian law concerns, while U.S. officials intermittently paused supplies due to concerns about their use in densely populated Gaza areas.
The Path Forward
No legal challenges in Germany have succeeded so far, and Israel continues to defend its positions in multiple legal fronts. This balance between humanitarian law concerns and strategic defense needs persists as an ongoing diplomatic challenge for Israel and its global allies.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.