Germany decreases weapons sales to Israel in a display of political influence
In a significant move, the German federal government announced on August 8, 2025, that it would stop all arms exports that could be used in the Gaza conflict, following Israel's security cabinet approving a plan to take control of Gaza City.
Conflict and peace researcher Thorsten Bonacker from the University of Marburg views this decision as a symbolically important step, given Germany's status as the second most important arms supplier to Israel. He interprets the move as a clear political signal. Israeli historian Moshe Zimmermann, another conflict and peace researcher, welcomes the step as overdue.
Israeli historian Moshe Zimmermann also welcomed the halt of German arms deliveries to Israel, believing that setting an example is important, and the German government's signal of dissatisfaction is valuable in itself. He stated, "Better late than never."
However, not everyone shares this sentiment. Historian Michael Wolffsohn criticized the halt of German arms deliveries, stating that the federal government is not living up to its own claims. He argues that anyone who wants to achieve the goals of a largely conflict-free foreign policy strategy, with the top priority being the release of hostages and the disarmament of Hamas, must supply Israel with weapons.
Wolffsohn also suggests that Germany needs drones, a missile shield, support in combating Islamic terrorism, and IT expertise from Israel in return for arms deliveries. He criticizes that Germany overestimates its importance in the context of arms deliveries, as it is primarily about US deliveries. Contrarily, Wolffsohn believes Germany is underestimating its own importance in the context of arms deliveries.
Bonacker, on the other hand, views the move as a preventive measure to avoid criticism of distancing from Israel and aligning with those who pressure the Israeli government. He believes Chancellor Friedrich Merz's emphasis on Israel's right to self-defense indicates that the federal government continues to support Israel in principle.
Zimmermann assumes the decision will have little effect due to Israel's dependence on its own production and US production. Despite this, he considers the decision long overdue and believes it should have been made earlier to express dissatisfaction with Israeli policy.
In summary, the halt of German arms exports to Israel marks a significant shift in Germany's foreign policy towards Israel. While opinions on the move vary, it is clear that this decision carries symbolic and political weight, and its implications will continue to unfold in the coming days and weeks.
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