Germany’s arms exports to Israel have seen a significant increase, with new figures revealing that the government approved exports worth €94 million since August alone. This is a much higher amount than was previously reported for the year, raising questions about the transparency of arms export approvals in the country. The new numbers came to light in response to a query from an MP of the left-wing nationalist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), after rumors circulated that the government had halted approving arms export permits altogether.
The German government had been accused of blocking arms export permits to Israel, particularly amidst the country’s military campaign in the Gaza Strip against Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the country’s largest opposition party, alleged that the government was preventing arms companies from obtaining export approvals. Figures revealed that only €14 million worth of deliveries were approved between January and mid-August, a significant decrease from the previous year’s total of €326 million. Reports suggested that no arms export licenses to Israel were approved between March and September.
Despite these accusations, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz denied that arms exports to Israel had been halted, affirming in parliament that weapons had been delivered and would continue to be. Legal questions have arisen regarding Germany’s arms deliveries to Israel, with Nicaragua filing a case at the International Court of Justice in April, alleging violations of the United Nations genocide convention. In June, a group of Palestinians attempted to stop arms exports to Israel through legal means in Berlin, but their case was rejected by the administrative court. Members of Scholz’ coalition have emphasized that weapon deliveries adhere to international law and are assessed on a case-by-case basis in line with EU guidelines.
Germany’s role as one of Israel’s major arms suppliers has come under scrutiny, with data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute indicating that Germany accounted for 47% of Israel’s total imports of conventional arms in 2023, second only to the US. While concerns persist regarding the transparency and approval process of arms exports, the German government maintains that deliveries to Israel are lawful and compliant with international standards. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock affirmed the importance of examining each case individually, as outlined in EU guidelines. The controversy surrounding Germany’s arms exports to Israel highlights the complex ethical and legal considerations involved in the arms trade and international relations.
Overall, the recent surge in Germany’s arms exports to Israel has sparked debate and raised questions about the transparency and oversight of arms export approvals within the country. Despite allegations of blocked permits and legal challenges, the German government asserts that weapons deliveries to Israel are conducted in accordance with international law and are subject to careful scrutiny on a case-by-case basis. As Germany continues to play a significant role in Israel’s arms imports, the issue remains contentious and underscores the delicate balance between national security interests and human rights considerations in the global arms trade.
