Germany to increase scrutiny of weapons exports to Israel

Germany plans to tighten its examination of weapon exports to Israel, particularly in light of potential violations of international law in Gaza, Economy Minister Robert Habeck said.

During a public discussion in Osnabrueck, Habeck noted that weapons systems used in the Gaza Strip, where humanitarian law may be at risk, will undergo stricter scrutiny, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

He affirmed Germany's commitment to supplying Israel with essential defence systems, including maritime and air defence against threats from Hezbollah. Habeck highlighted the close military alliance between Germany and Israel, rooted in Germany’s historical obligations due to the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime against Jewish people.

An economy ministry spokesperson clarified that Germany has not completely halted arms deliveries to Israel, emphasizing that export licenses are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. This evaluation takes into account the current situation, including attacks from Hamas and Hezbollah as well as military operations in Gaza.

The Israeli embassy has yet to respond to requests for comment. Israel's military response in Gaza, following the October 7 attacks by Hamas, has faced criticism for being excessively destructive. Meanwhile, the US has indicated that Israel may have used American weapons in ways that contravene international law, and an investigation is ongoing.

Earlier this month, the UK also suspended some arms licenses to Israel, though both the US and UK maintain their support for Israel's right to self-defence.