Germany approves arms exports to Israel despite restrictions

Germany has approved arms exports to Israel worth at least €2.46 million ($2.9 million) since it imposed a partial halt on the shipment of military equipment, the federal economy ministry said in response to a parliamentary question from the Left party group.

The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs said the shipments related to “other military materials” and did not include combat weapons.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz ordered a temporary suspension on Aug. 8 of exports of military equipment that could be used in the fighting in Gaza, a move seen as a shift in Germany’s policy toward Israel after an escalation of Israeli military operations.

That followed a gradual intensification of Berlin’s criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, although it stopped short of imposing sanctions.

During the first five weeks of the suspension no export approvals were granted. The current approvals, which cover the period up to Sept. 22, show the €2.46 million in shipments took place between Sept. 13 and 22.
By comparison, the value of export licences to Israel from Jan. 1 to Aug. 8, 2025 was about €250 million.

The exact nature of the goods remains unclear: the ministry listed eight categories including missiles and torpedoes, warships and naval equipment, but since these exports are not classified as combat weapons and their total value is relatively small, they are likely to be accessories or equipment.

Israel criticised the partial decision, with Netanyahu accusing Germany of rewarding Hamas for “terrorism” and expressing his disappointment directly to Chancellor Merz.