Germany lifts restrictions on arms exports to Israel

Germany will lift its restrictions on arms exports to Israel at the end of November, the government announced on November 17, reversing a halt introduced during the height of the Gaza conflict.

Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius told the German press agency dpa that the export limitations — imposed in August by Chancellor Friedrich Merz — would no longer apply, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

He cited the October ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which he said has “stabilized in recent weeks.” The change will take effect on November 24.

Kornelius also referred to continued diplomatic efforts “toward a lasting peace” and noted Germany’s increased humanitarian support for civilians in Gaza. Going forward, Berlin will “generally return to case-by-case assessments” of export applications while maintaining support for relief and reconstruction efforts.

The move ends a period during which Germany, despite framing the measure as a targeted halt on equipment “clearly usable in Gaza,” effectively issued no new arms licenses. A written response from the economy ministry indicated that between August 8 and September 12, Berlin approved zero export permits of any kind — a broader freeze than originally signaled.

By Sabina Mammadli