Germany will partially lift its embargo on arms exports to Israel on November 24, a government spokesman said on Monday. The embargo was announced in early August in reaction to Israel’s expanding offensive on the Gaza Strip.
“Since October 10, we have had a ceasefire in Gaza that has generally stabilized,” said Sebastian Hille, in a press conference, to justify this decision. “Starting November 24, arms exports to Israel will again be possible based on the usual case-by-case review procedures,” he said.
Berlin expects Israel and Hamas to “respect the agreements reached”, which include “maintaining the ceasefire” and “providing large-scale humanitarian assistance”, he said.
Public criticism
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on August 8 to suspend the export of military equipment likely to be used in the Gaza Strip, in response to Israel’s plans to take over Gaza City.
The partial embargo sparked public criticism from members of his party, the CDU, who said the move went against fundamental principles of Germany and the party.
Because of its historical responsibility for the Holocaust, Germany has to this day been one of Israel’s biggest supporters. But Berlin’s stance towards Israel has become increasingly harsh in recent months, as the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip has deteriorated dramatically.
