Germany Resumes Arms Exports to Israel Amidst Ongoing Concerns of International Law Violations in Gaza
Berlin, November 25, 2024 – The German government’s decision, effective today, to lift its partial suspension on arms exports to Israel, specifically for use in the occupied Gaza Strip, has drawn sharp criticism from Amnesty International and ignited a renewed debate surrounding international legal obligations and the ongoing conflict.This move, reversing a policy enacted in August 2025, is being condemned as reckless and potentially unlawful by human rights advocates who argue it emboldens Israel to continue actions that may constitute genocide, war crimes, and apartheid.
Amnesty International Condemns the Decision as a Setback for Accountability
Erika Guevara-Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, released a scathing statement, asserting that Germany’s decision “sends entirely the wrong message to Israel: that it can continue committing genocide, war crimes, and apartheid against Palestinians and unlawfully occupy the west Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza without fear of consequence.”
The initial suspension, while overdue, represented a crucial step towards applying meaningful pressure on Israel amidst its military operations in Gaza. Germany, historically one of Israel’s largest arms suppliers, had temporarily halted the issuance of licenses following the Israeli Security Cabinet’s decision to escalate control over Gaza City, a region facing a dire humanitarian crisis with nearly one million Palestinians struggling for survival.
“Now is absolutely not the time to ease this pressure,” guevara-Rosas emphasized. “This is the time to ensure that Israel stops its violations of international law, including its unlawful occupation as indicated by the International Court of Justice in July 2024 and agreed by the UN General Assembly.” She warned that Germany is embarking on a “hazardous path” that risks being emulated by other nations, further undermining international efforts to uphold humanitarian law.
The Disconnect Between Justification and Reality
the German government has justified the resumption of arms exports by citing a “ceasefire” and “stabilization” in Gaza. However, Amnesty International vehemently disputes this rationale, labeling it “wholly disingenuous.” the organization points to the continued attacks on Palestinians, the severe restrictions on humanitarian aid, and the widespread displacement of the population - with the vast majority lacking adequate shelter – as evidence that the situation remains profoundly unstable and deeply concerning.
“As Israel continues to attack Palestinians in Gaza and restrict humanitarian aid and essential supplies and services while most of the population remains displaced and without adequate shelter, for Germany to cite the “ceasefire” and “stabilization” in Gaza as the basis for its decision to resume arms exports is wholly disingenuous,” Guevara-Rosas stated.
Call for a complete Arms Embargo and Upholding International Law
amnesty International is advocating for a comprehensive arms embargo on all parties involved in the military activities in Gaza, including Israel and Hamas. This call is rooted in the essential principle that states have a legal obligation to ensure respect for international humanitarian law.
The organization stresses that Germany, as a signatory to the Arms Trade Treaty, must uphold its commitments and refrain from contributing to potential violations of international law. Furthermore, all states bear a duty to prevent and punish genocide, and to actively work towards ending it. continuing to supply arms to Israel, Amnesty International argues, directly contravenes these international legal obligations.
Germany’s Role as a Major Arms Supplier to Israel
The scale of Germany’s arms trade with israel is critically important. According to German government data, between October 7, 2023, and may 12, 2025, export licenses worth over €485 million were issued, including crucial components like anti-tank weapons and gearboxes for Merkava tanks deployed in Gaza. This makes Germany Israel’s second-largest arms supplier, trailing only the United States.
Looking Ahead: Implications for international Law and Regional Stability
Germany’s decision raises serious questions about the commitment of major powers to upholding international law and ensuring accountability for potential war crimes. The move is highly likely to intensify scrutiny of arms sales to Israel and fuel calls for a more robust international response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
The situation demands a renewed focus on diplomatic efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire, protect civilians, and address the root causes of the conflict. Failing to do so risks further escalation and a deepening humanitarian catastrophe.
Resources:
* German Government on Arms Exports
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