Germany Lifts Restrictions on Arms Exports to Israel

Germany has announced that it will lift the restrictions on arms exports to Israel, reversing a policy introduced in August at the height of the Gaza war.

Government spokesperson Steffen Cornelius told the German Press Agency that the decision will take effect on 24 November.

He stated that the move is based on what he described as a period of relative stability linked to the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which has been in place since 10 October, alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure lasting peace and expand humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

Cornelius confirmed that Berlin will now return to evaluating arms export requests on a case-by-case basis, adding that the government will continue to monitor developments closely and respond to any changes on the ground.

He emphasized that Germany remains committed to supporting long-term peace in the region and contributing to humanitarian needs and reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip.

Germany, the second-largest supplier of arms to Israel after the United States, introduced partial restrictions in August amid growing domestic pressure over the war.

The suspension targeted weapons and systems that could be used in Gaza, while allowing Israel to continue receiving equipment deemed essential for its external defense.