Overview

• Official data show no German approvals for arms exports to Israel from 8 August to 12 September 2025 following the chancellor’s policy shift.
• The August decision paused approvals for equipment that could be used in the Gaza war, marking a clear change in export policy.
• A letter from State Secretary Thomas Steffen states decisions proceed on a case-by-case basis in line with foreign- and security-policy considerations and legal requirements.
• Prior to the halt, approvals totaled nearly €500 million under Olaf Scholz through May 2025 and €3.99 million in the first five weeks of the Merz government.
• Israel’s prime minister’s office criticized the move as rewarding Hamas, while The Left party urged a full stop to exports and an end to close military cooperation.