Germany has escalated its support for Israel in 2024, approving arms exports exceeding €160 million, with an additional €30 million worth of military equipment authorized in recent weeks. This move underscores Germany’s enduring alliance with Israel but has also sparked significant international controversy and criticism.
According to a report by Der Spiegel, the latest figures were revealed by the German Ministry of Economics. These approvals come despite mounting accusations from human rights organizations alleging that Israel is engaging in "genocidal actions" in Gaza. Germany’s continued defense collaboration with Israel has placed Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government under scrutiny, as opponents argue it contradicts global calls for accountability in the region.
In recent weeks, the German government has approved additional arms exports to Israel worth over €30 million.
— Venik (@venik44) December 24, 2024
Over the course of the year, Germany has supplied Israel with weapons valued at more than €160 million.
However, none of the shipments included items classified as…
Arms Deals Without War Weapons
While Germany has fulfilled numerous Israeli requests for military supplies, the arms exported have notably excluded goods classified as "weapons of war," such as artillery shells or tank ammunition. Sources indicate that Israel formally requested such weaponry shortly after the devastating Hamas attack in October 2023, yet Berlin has withheld approval for these categories of exports.
This cautious approach likely stems from ongoing legal and diplomatic concerns. The delivery of military equipment potentially usable in Gaza was suspended earlier this year after Nicaragua lodged a lawsuit against Germany at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing it of complicity in alleged war crimes in the Gaza Strip. The case has heightened scrutiny of German arms exports and their potential ramifications.
"We supplied Israel with weapons. We will continue to supply Israel with weapons. Soon there will be new shipments of weapons. This is the position of Germany." 🇩🇪
— The Mossad: Satirical and Awesome (@TheMossadIL) October 10, 2024
These nations understand that if Israel fails the war against terrorism they are next. pic.twitter.com/jZrK8owsBT
A Historical Bond and Contemporary Challenges
Germany’s support for Israel is deeply rooted in its historical responsibility, stemming from the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. Chancellor Scholz has repeatedly emphasized this "special responsibility," framing the defense of Israel’s security as a moral imperative for the German state. However, this unwavering backing has drawn sharp criticism from political adversaries and global activists, who claim it damages Germany’s standing in international diplomacy.
Leading critics include Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, whose own government faces allegations of territorial aggression in northern Syria and beyond. Erdoğan’s claims of German complicity in Israel’s military actions have been characterized by some as politically motivated, given his controversial record on human rights and expansionist policies.
Israel is the dangerously imperialistic power?
— An Israeli mother (@IsraMum) December 24, 2024
Turkish President Erdogan (@RTErdogan), of the 1000-rooms palace, spoke yesterday in the city of Mardin, which borders Syria.
"Mr. President, take us to Jerusalem," the enthusiastic crowd chants.
And Erdogan replies:
"Patience… https://t.co/VwlEvYKGgF pic.twitter.com/IdULPXEi5S
Navigating Controversy
Despite these criticisms, Berlin remains steadfast in its alliance with Israel, viewing it as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. German leaders argue that supporting Israel’s security is both a moral and strategic necessity. However, balancing this commitment with increasing international demands for accountability presents a complex challenge for Germany’s leadership.
As Germany continues to navigate its role on the global stage, the debate over its arms exports to Israel reflects broader tensions between historical obligations, modern geopolitical realities, and the demands of international law. For now, Berlin’s decisions signal a clear message: its partnership with Israel will not waver, even under intense global scrutiny.
