Following a period of suspension, the German government has formally reinstated its approval for weapons exports to Israel, citing the current, albeit fragile, ceasefire agreement in Gaza as justification. This reversal, announced by Deputy Government Spokesman Sebastian Hille, marks a significant shift in Berlin’s policy towards Israel and has already drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and opposition parties.
The decision, backdated to November 24, 2025, effectively ends the August moratorium imposed on arms deliveries intended for use within the Gazan Strip. The initial freeze stemmed from concerns regarding the intensity and impact of Israel’s military operations following the October 10th attacks. Hille emphasized that the resumption of exports is contingent upon adherence to the terms of the ceasefire, including the continued flow of humanitarian aid and the orderly progression of agreed-upon processes.
However, the government’s rationale has been met with skepticism. Critics question the assertion that the current situation constitutes a substantial and stable peace, arguing that continued arms deliveries risk enabling further escalation and undermining efforts to achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict.
“To frame this fragile ceasefire as sufficient grounds to resume arms exports is disingenuous and potentially dangerous” stated Anya Schmidt, a spokesperson for Amnesty International Germany. “It ignores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and signals a prioritization of political expediency over responsible arms control.
Opposition parties have also voiced strong objections. The Green Party has condemned the decision as a betrayal of Germany’s stated commitment to human rights. “The government needs to demonstrate a far greater level of scrutiny and accountability when authorizing weapons exports to a region experiencing such profound instability” remarked Claudia Klein, a Green Party parliamentarian. “Simply pointing to a ceasefire agreement does not absolve them of their responsibility to ensure that German weapons are not contributing to further suffering.
The move raises broader questions regarding Germany’s foreign policy approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its increasing vulnerability to accusations of double standards. While officials maintain that the decision aligns with international law and Germany’s commitment to Israel’s security, the timing and the justification provided are unlikely to quell the rising tide of criticism, especially as the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains deeply concerning.