Germany Resumes Arms Exports to Israel Amidst Ongoing Gaza Conflict
Germany has resumed arms exports to Israel following a three-month suspension, a decision that has sparked international attention due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently visited Israel, lifted the suspension citing a stabilization in Gaza after a ceasefire. Germany is a significant arms supplier to Israel, second only to the United States, and has historically maintained a strong bilateral relationship with Israel, rooted in post-World War II reparations and support. The resumption of arms exports includes advanced military equipment, such as the Arrow 3 missile defense system, marking a significant procurement for Germany. Despite the ceasefire, reports indicate continued violence in Gaza, with numerous Palestinian casualties and violations of the ceasefire by Israeli forces.