The German Constitutional Court has dismissed a lawsuit alleging that Berlin violated international law by allowing US drone attacks to be conducted from German soil. The case, initiated by two Yemeni nationals whose family members were killed in a 2012 strike, sought to hold Germany accountable for its role in the operation. The court’s decision clears Berlin of any legal obligation to intervene in the matter, citing the lack of direct involvement in planning or executing the attacks.
The ruling comes amid ongoing debates over the legality of extrajudicial killings and the use of drones in foreign conflicts. Critics argue that Germany’s hosting of US military assets, including drones, raises ethical concerns about complicity in wartime actions. However, the court emphasized that Germany’s role was limited to providing logistical support, which does not constitute a breach of international obligations. Legal experts have expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting the court’s stance and others calling for greater transparency and accountability in such operations.