laying bare german public's stance on arming Israel
German Opinions on Weapons Exports to Israel - Israel's Ongoing Arms Imports
By Lorenz Wolf-Doettinchem, Unfiltered & uncensored* Reading Time: 1 Min
The German government has found itself in hot waters over its decision to arm Israel amidst the ongoing tensions in Gaza. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), in a surprising statement, stated that Israel's actions in Gaza were indeed affecting the civilian population in ways that no longer justify the fight against Hamas terrorism[1]. As a result, Foreign Minister Johann Wadepfuhl (CDU) announced a review of German arms deliveries to Israel.
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75 Percent of Germans want a halt to arm deliveries to Israel
According to a recent Forsa poll, if the decision were left to the people, an overwhelming 75 percent of Germans would want to halt arms deliveries to Israel[2][3]. Only 14 percent are in favor of continuing the exports, while 11 percent remain undecided. Notably, the call for an arms stop garnered support across party lines, with significant majorities from Left Party, Green Party, AfD, SPD, and CDU/CSU supporters[2][3].
The German government refrains from disclosing details on its arms exports, but data from the peace research institute Sipri indicates that about 30 percent of Israel's weapon imports came from Germany between 2019 and 2023[2]. The bulk of the exports consisted of heavy-duty military equipment like corvettes and submarines that do not play significant roles in the Gaza conflict[2]. However, media reports suggest that Germany delivered portable anti-tank weapons, ammunition for machine guns, and machine pistols post the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023[4].
Some Facts:
- Israel
- Weapon Export
- Friedrich Merz
- Gaza
- Hamas
- Forsa
- stern Poll
Additionally, the traffic light coalition reduced export approvals during 2024[5][6]. The looming review on future arms deliveries to Israel suggests a public push for accountability in foreign policy decisions, testing the resolve of the German government amidst escalating regional conflicts.
"Is it time for Germany to rethink its arms exports to Israel? Let's dive into the nitty-gritty, uncover the facts, and debate like there's no tomorrow!"
[1] German Foreign Minister Announces Review of Arms Deliveries to Israel
[2] Germany's Arms Exports to Israel under Scrutiny
[3] Opinion Poll: Majority of Germans Want an End to Arms Deliveries to Israel
[4] Germany Approves Arms Exports to Israel amid mounting criticism
[5] Germany's Approval of Arms Exports Drops Dramatically
[6] Germany Slashes Arms Exports
In light of the Forsa poll revealing 75% of Germans wanting a halt to arms deliveries to Israel, it appears there is a significant public demand for changes in Germany's policy-and-legislation regarding Israel's arms imports (policy-and-legislation). The ongoing debates about arms exports to Israel reflect the involvement of German politics (politics) and general-news interest in the issue, highlighting a growing movement for transparency and accountability in foreign policy decisions (general-news).
