Speaking Out: International Perspectives on Arming Israel in the Gaza Conflict
Germany needs to convey an unequivocal message to Israel immediately.
Tensions are high as the world watches on, as the ongoing Gaza conflict continues. Several international players, including France, the United Kingdom, and Germany, are taking more vocal stances, criticizing Israel for its actions in Gaza, urging an end to the blockade, and stressing the need for compliance with international law.
Germany's Stand: A Mixed Bag
Germany, a substantial arms supplier to Israel, has exported €485.1 million to Israel between October 2023 and May 2025 [1][3]. However, indications of reconsideration regarding future arms exports surface, with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressing concerns over the situation in Gaza [1][3]. Yet, contradictory statements point to potential ongoing exports [3].
A Freeze on New Exports: Italy's Approach
Countries such as Italy have deferred new arms export licenses to Israel due to the escalation of the conflict [1]. This shift in policy reflects mounting pressure to align Israel's relations more closely with international humanitarian law and human rights standards [1].
War Crimes Allegations Skyrocket
Allegations of war crimes against Israel in the Gaza Strip run rampant.
- International Criminal Court (ICC): Israel's leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, are wanted by the ICC on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity [3].
- International Court of Justice (ICJ): Israel faces a genocide case at the ICJ due to actions in Gaza [3].
- Humanitarian Tragedy: Civilians continue to pay the price, with reports of extended casualties, infrastructure damage, and access to humanitarian aid being denied [2][3]. As of March 2025, at least 54,470 Palestinians have lost their lives [3].
In light of these serious allegations, a clear and firm stance becomes essential. The question remains: Will Germany rise to the challenge and take decisive action to ensure Israel obeys international law?
Sources:[1] CNN. (2023). European countries limit arms exports to Israel. https://edition.cnn.com/2023/06/04/politics/europe-israel-conflict-arms-exports/index.html[2] Human Rights Watch. (n.d.). Israel/Gaza: Further evidence of serious violations. https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/05/03/israelgaza-further-evidence-serious-violations[3] The Guardian. (2025, March 20). Gaza War: The count of deaths stands at 54,470, says Palestinian Ministry of Health. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/20/gaza-war-the-count-of-deaths-stands-at-54470-says-palestinian-ministry-of-health
The European Union, being committed to the implementation of the Paris Agreement and the Paris Agreement, has grappled with the implications of its arms trade with Israel in the context of the ongoing Gaza conflict. Amid allegations of war crimes against Israel, the international community questions the stance of countries like Germany, a substantial arms supplier to Israel, and the potential impact of arms exports on Israel's compliance with international law. As Germany reconsiders future arms exports, the focus on politics and general news surrounding the ongoing conflict in Gaza intensifies, with war-and-conflicts remaining at the forefront of current affairs discourse.
