Germany has decided to lift its arms export restrictions to Israel, citing the stability brought by the US-backed ceasefire in Gaza.
The decision follows a suspension in August when Israel’s military operations in Gaza led to the halt of weapon deliveries. Government deputy spokesman Sebastian Hille stated that the situation on the ground has stabilized, with the ceasefire in effect since October 10. He declined to discuss whether the restrictions might be reinstated if conditions change, as well as any information on delivery delays or cancellations during the suspension. The move has drawn mixed reactions, with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar welcoming the decision while critics within Germany denounced it as irresponsible.
His comments came just days after Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir claimed that the Palestinian people have never existed and the nation is just an invention without any historical, archaeological, or factual basis. Last week, Reuters reported that the Israeli military was sending Palestinian civilians into Hamas tunnels that they knew might be rigged with explosives during their operation in Gaza.
Berlin’s decision on Monday was welcomed by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who urged other nations to follow suit in a post on X. It drew criticism at home, however, with Lea Reisner, the Left party’s spokesperson for international relations, calling it ‘fatal and completely irresponsible.’ Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating the ceasefire. At least 245 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza over the past month, according to local officials.
Israel launched its military operation in the Palestinian enclave in response to a Hamas surprise attack in which 1,200 people were killed and 250 others taken hostage in October 2023. According to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health authorities, the campaign has left at least 68,000 Palestinians dead.