Germany is set to lift its suspension on certain weapons sales to Israel from next week, following a ceasefire agreement reached last month, a government spokesperson confirmed on Monday.
The decision will see the resumption of exports that were halted in August, with sales recommencing from 24 November.
“The government will, as a general rule, revert to case-by-case reviews in decisions on arms exports and respond to further developments,” the spokesperson stated.
Explaining the move, Chancellor Friedrich Merzâs spokesperson, Stefan Kornelius, told German news agency dpa that the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that went into effect last month has âstabilised in recent weeksâ.
He also highlighted efforts to ramp up humanitarian aid in Gaza and secure a long-term peace.
The initial suspension, announced in August, came amid growing public pressure over the conflict in Gaza.
It specifically targeted weapons and systems deemed potentially usable in Gaza, while allowing exports necessary for Israel’s self-defence against external threats to continue.
Germany stands as the second-largest arms exporter to Israel, after the United States.
The spokesperson reiterated Germany’s commitment to fostering a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians, based on a two-state solution, and pledged continued support for reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
Merz’s decision in August was a remarkable move by a country that is a staunch ally of Israel.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in early August that Berlin wouldnât authorise any exports of military equipment to Israel that could be used in Gaza âuntil further notice.” The move came in response to a decision by the Israeli Cabinet to take over Gaza City.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday vowed to oppose any attempts to establish a Palestinian state, a day before the UN Security Council is to vote on an American resolution that leaves the door open to Palestinian independence.
Netanyahu has long ruled out Palestinian independence. But as the US attempts to push forward with its Gaza ceasefire proposal, the Israeli leader faces heavy international pressure to show flexibility.
The U.N. Security Council is expected to vote on Monday on a US proposal for a UN mandate for an international stabilization force in Gaza despite opposition from Russia, China and some Arab countries.
