Germany Resumes Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict

Saudi Arabia's constructive role in the conflict and its modernization plans influence its foreign relations, despite criticism of Israel's military approach in Gaza.

Germany has resumed the sale of Eurofighter jets and other high-tech armaments to Saudi Arabia, reversing a ban implemented in 2018 following the assassination of Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi and concerns over Saudi Arabia's role in the Yemen war.
Saudi Arabia has been praised by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock for its 'constructive' position with regard to Israel during the current Israel-Hamas conflict, including using Eurofighters to shoot down Houthi missiles bound for Israel.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed positive views on Saudi Arabia following his visit to Riyadh, discussing potential normalization of relations with Israel.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Saudi Arabia's criticism of Israel's military approach, Saudi Arabia's underlying foreign policy objectives have not drastically changed, with the country still interested in maintaining good relations with the US and Israel.
Saudi Arabia's modernization program, which involves moving away from oil dependence and fostering better relationships with leading economies in the region, including Israel, is a key factor in its foreign policy decisions.