The German government, comprising the Social Democratic Party and the Greens, approved the export of military equipment worth nearly 2 million euros to Israel in January, according to a response from the Ministry of Economics to a question from the Bundestag’s Budget Committee.
The response reveals that, in addition to the export of components for military vehicles, the government also authorized the export of military electronics, software and technology to Israel, totaling 1,990,500 euros. The exact nature of the exported goods is unknown. The Federal Security Council, comprising cabinet ministers, is responsible for reviewing the approval of significant exports and arms, but its meetings are held in secret.
BSW politician Sevim Dagdelen sharply criticized the export approvals, stating, “The German government must immediately halt the arms deliveries to Israel.” She emphasized that this is particularly crucial in light of Donald Trump’s plans, adding, “Germany must not be made a helper in the massive crime of ethnic cleansing.”
Trump had previously announced his intention to “take over” the Gaza Strip and threatened the forced removal of the Palestinian population living there. The German government also criticized Trump’s statements, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (Greens) describing them as “unacceptable and contrary to international law.”
When asked about the recent export approvals, the Ministry of Economics, led by Robert Habeck, declined to comment, citing the government’s practice of not commenting on individual approvals.