Germany resumes arms exports to Israel amid rights outcry

WISE NEWS PRESS / BERLIN, GERMANY — Nov. 25, 2025

The German government has officially lifted restrictions on arms exports to Israel, ending a three-and-a-half-month suspension that was implemented due to concerns over military operations in Gaza.

The ban, which had been in place since Aug. 8, prevented the export of weapons suitable for use in the Gaza Strip. The reversal of this policy comes in the wake of the ceasefire declared between Hamas and Israel on Oct. 10, which Berlin now views as sufficiently stable to resume defense cooperation.

Government cites ceasefire stability

Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius confirmed the policy shift last week, pointing to the stabilization of the ceasefire in recent weeks as the primary justification. Kornelius also highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a lasting peace in the region and the increase in humanitarian aid flowing into the Gaza Strip.

However, the spokesperson clarified that the lifting of the general restriction does not imply a blanket approval for all requests. The government intends to continue assessing every export application on a case-by-case basis.

Human rights groups warn of complicity

The decision, effective as of Nov. 24, has drawn immediate and sharp condemnation from human rights organizations. Amnesty International described the resumption of arms exports as unlawful, warning that the risk of German weapons being used to commit war crimes and human rights violations persists.

Julia Duchrow, Secretary General of Amnesty International Germany, argued that the ceasefire declared on Oct. 10 remains "extremely fragile" and noted that civilian casualties continue to mount. She termed the return to the previous export system a "completely wrong signal."

"The export of weapons that can be used in the Gaza Strip is contrary to international law," Duchrow said. "The international community, including Germany, is obliged under international law to prevent genocide in the Gaza Strip and to take measures to end it."

Andreas Frick, General Manager of the Catholic relief organization Misereor, echoed these sentiments. Frick warned that as long as violations of international law continue, Germany cannot contribute to attacks on civilians.

"Germany is becoming an accomplice to the crime," Frick stated, also pointing to Israeli military actions affecting civilians in Lebanon.

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