Sweden Increases Arms Imports from Israel

Sweden has significantly expanded its arms imports from Israel, despite maintaining strict regulations on exporting weapons to the country.

According to a report by the Swedish newspaper Dagens ETC, Sweden has no equivalent legal restrictions on arms imports, allowing it to procure weapons from nations with human rights violations, including Israel.

Between 2015 and 2024, Sweden imported military equipment worth over 41 billion kronor (approximately 39 billion dollars), with Israeli arms accounting for nearly half a billion kronor.

Data from the Parliamentary Research Office reveals that in 2023 alone, Sweden imported weapons worth 8 million kronor from Israel, a figure that more than doubled to 18 million kronor in 2024.

Israel now ranks as the 12th largest arms supplier to Sweden, despite Sweden’s ban on arms exports to Israel due to ongoing conflicts and human rights concerns in Palestinian territories.

Unlike other European nations such as Norway, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, Sweden does not enforce a transparent permit system for arms imports.

While strict licenses are required for exporting Swedish weapons, no such regulatory framework exists for foreign arms purchases.

Additionally, there is no legal obligation for Swedish companies or government agencies to disclose arms import transactions.

Criticism has emerged from peace advocacy organizations, highlighting the political and military dependencies created by such arms deals. 

Some experts warn that importing weapons from certain nations can limit Sweden’s ability to criticize human rights violations committed by those states.

Calls for legislative reforms have been growing, particularly from political figures who argue that Sweden must regulate its arms imports to align with its ethical stance on arms exports.

Some have voiced concerns that Sweden's purchases indirectly support military operations in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza.

Despite these concerns, Sweden’s government, backed by the Sweden Democrats (SD), has dismissed the need for legislative changes, asserting that current regulations adequately oversee arms imports.

Analysts from Sweden’s National Defense College argue that Swedish defense companies adhere to state policies to avoid jeopardizing future contracts, reinforcing the government's stance that existing oversight is sufficient.

While Sweden continues to maintain its export restrictions, its growing arms trade with Israel remains a contentious issue, raising questions about the country’s defense policies and foreign relations.