Federal government draws conclusions: arms deliveries to Israel are in danger!

Federal government draws conclusions: arms deliveries to Israel are in danger!

The political landscape in Germany is changing in light of current developments in the Middle East. The arms deliveries to Israel in particular have come under fire. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) has announced that the federal government will reconsider its policy towards Israel. This comes against the backdrop of increasing disapproval of the military actions in Gaza and the associated humanitarian suffering. Loud Picture The Federal Government is sharpening its position and questioning the compatibility of German arms deliveries with international humanitarian law.

Wadephul described aid deliveries in Gaza as “just a drop in the ocean” and stressed the urgency of upholding basic human rights. Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz also criticized the Israeli government's actions and expressed dismay at the fate of the civilian population. With a change in rhetoric, the pressure on Israel is becoming increasingly clear, while the tone of those responsible in Berlin is becoming harsher. Chancellery Minister Thorsten Frei expressed concerns about Israel's strategy and compliance with international law in the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung” (FAS).

Weapons deliveries under surveillance

Weapons deliveries to Israel have increased sharply in recent years, especially after approved arms exports, which skyrocketed after October 7, 2023. Data shows that over 80% of permit applications have been approved. In 2023, the approval volume for military weapons amounted to over 20.1 million euros. However, with the new policy, the federal government has indicated that future deliveries could depend on an examination of their compatibility with international humanitarian law. This could indeed lead to a partial supply stoppage. Wadephul expressed that such considerations were indicated in the formulation of the policy.

The disbursements and approvals of military equipment also reveal a complex situation. Loud Zenith There were no actual exports of military weapons to Israel between January and June 2024. This could be due to verification of the use of weapons and legal protections. The federal government is even demanding a written assurance from Israel that German weapons will be used in accordance with international law.

The debate in Berlin

In Berlin, the discussion about arms deliveries and the associated moral obligations of the federal government is not new. The SPD foreign politician Mützenich called for an immediate stop to arms deliveries and classified it as right to forego them for the moment. Green Party leader Brantner, on the other hand, rejected a fundamental delivery stop, but demanded that no weapons be used in violation of international law. Opinions are therefore divided when it comes to a balanced approach to this difficult situation.

In this context, Josef Schuster, President of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, warns of the insecurity in the Jewish community and criticizes the federal government's rhetoric, particularly the term “forced solidarity” with Israel. He calls for a sensitive approach to Germany's historical responsibility. Concerns about arms supplies are growing among the general public, and many are calling for an arms embargo to be in place to prevent the conflict from escalating.

Next week will be crucial as Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar is expected in Berlin. Given Germany's current stance, this could be a fundamentally important diplomatic encounter. The signs point to an increasingly critical attitude toward the military operations in Gaza as the federal government seeks a balance between moral obligations and geopolitical interests. Because there is something going on!