Germany announced on Monday, November 17th, that it will lift the limits it placed in August on arms exports to Israel.
Government spokesman Sebastian Hille said the decision takes effect on November 24th, and future exports will be approved case by case.
The restrictions were introduced after Israel announced plans to intensify its offensive in Gaza City. Hille explained that the government has reviewed the policy because the situation has changed, noting that the ceasefire in Gaza since October 10th has “stabilised.”
Germany expects all sides to respect the agreements in place, including maintaining the ceasefire and allowing humanitarian aid.
Having previously criticised European Union sanctions, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed Germany’s decision and urged other countries to follow.
Traditionally, Germany has strongly supported Israel but appeared increasingly equivocal after the October 7th pogrom. Public opinion has also shifted: a recent poll showed that 62% of Germans believe Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to genocide.
