2024-09-16 23:23:31
Germany has significantly reduced its arms sales to Israel, despite officially supporting its fight against terrorism. In 2024, defensive weapons sales totaled just $14 million, the lowest in 20 years. The drop in offensive weapons sales was particularly noticeable, with sales in the first months of this year totaling just $32,000, down significantly from $20 million in the same period last year.
According to journalist Uri Blau, the German arms import commission, headed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, has sharply reduced the number of permits for deliveries, which has had a particular impact on tank shells, which Israel desperately needs.
The German Ministry of Economy stressed the importance of respecting international law when using force. The government expressed hope that Israel would respect these norms during defensive operations.
German media, including the Bild publication, also noted that Germany had previously refused to satisfy Israel’s request for thousands of tank munitions. At the same time, Germany is actively arming Arab countries. It is reported that in the first half of the year, Qatar, one of the main sponsors of Hamas terrorists, purchased weapons worth 100 million euros, including modern howitzers.
The American Jewish Committee in Berlin noted that this fact should be kept in mind when German politicians talk about a “special relationship” with Israel.
Earlier, Cursor wrote that Canada spoke harshly about the transfer of weapons to Israel.
Ottawa is concerned about the use of its weapons in the Gaza Strip.