Why Berlin’s decision marks a strategic reset in its relations with Israel.
By Rachel Avraham
The German government’s move to lift the temporary technical pause on arms exports to Israel marks a significant turning point in Berlin–Tel Aviv relations. This step is neither a symbolic gesture nor a short-term reaction. It is a strategic decision grounded in Germany’s historical responsibility, Europe’s security realities, and the framework of international law.
For decades, one principle has remained constant in German state policy: Israel’s security is part of Germany’s core national responsibility. After the October 7 massacre, this principle only deepened. While bureaucratic procedures slowed deliveries in recent months, Germany never imposed an embargo on Israel — the delay was technical, not political. Now that the review process has concluded, full export activity is resuming.
This decision is also firmly rooted in international law. Neither the International Court of Justice nor the United Nations has accused Israel of acting with genocidal intent. Although the term “genocide” circulates widely in political discourse, the legal reality is different: there is no evidence supporting the specific intent required under the Genocide Convention. Germany shaped its decision based on these legal facts, not on slogans.
Europe’s own security interests also stand behind the move. Iran’s rising regional influence, the Houthis’ attacks on global shipping routes in the Red Sea, and Hezbollah’s escalating threats along Israel’s northern border — all pose direct risks to Europe’s energy flows and trade. Israel stands on the front line of these threats. For Berlin, the strategic conclusion is clear: A strong Israel means a more stable Middle East, and a more stable Middle East means a safer Europe.
Germany’s decision reflects a balanced political posture: it recognizes Israel’s inherent right to self-defense while continuing to coordinate with international partners on humanitarian issues in Gaza. This is the multifaceted, pragmatic framework that responsible diplomacy requires.
Resuming arms exports also strengthens broader German–Israeli cooperation in cybersecurity, defense manufacturing, aerospace, and advanced technology. Berlin’s move is not a tactical fix but a reaffirmation of a long-term strategic partnership.
The bottom line is this: Germany remains committed to its historic responsibility, aligned with Europe’s real security map, and firm in its strategic partnership with Israel. This decision marks a deliberate and durable reset in Berlin–Tel Aviv relations.
Photo from Sandro Halank, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chancellor_of_Germany#/media/File:2025-02-23_Bundestagswahl_%E2%80%93_Wahlabend_CDU_by_Sandro_Halank%E2%80%93025_(3x4_cropped_b).jpg
