GERMANY TO LIFT PARTIAL ARMS EMBARGO ON ISRAEL ON NOVEMBER 24

Germany announced it will lift its partial weapons export ban to Israel starting November 24. Spokesman Stefan Kornelius cited the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in place since October 10, as a major reason for the policy shift, noting that the situation has “stabilized in recent weeks.”

Kornelius also pointed to renewed efforts toward lasting peace and expanded humanitarian aid in Gaza as key factors. Going forward, the German government plans to review arms export requests on a case-by-case basis, responding to developments as they arise.

The embargo was first imposed in early August by Chancellor Friedrich Merz following Israel’s decision to intensify military operations in Gaza. The move marked a significant change for Germany, traditionally one of Israel’s strongest allies since the attacks by Hamas in October 2023.