Germany said Monday it will lift its temporary restrictions on military equipment exports to Israel later this month, citing the stabilization of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced in August that Berlin would halt approvals for any exports that could be used in Gaza after Israel’s Cabinet decided to take control of Gaza City. Government spokesperson Sebastian Hille said the suspension will end on November 24.
“Since Oct. 10, we have had a ceasefire in Gaza and it has fundamentally stabilized,” Hille told reporters, calling it the basis for resuming normal export procedures. He said Germany expects all parties to uphold the agreements reached, including maintaining the ceasefire and ensuring large-scale humanitarian aid continues.
Hille declined to say whether Israel had submitted any requests for equipment during the suspension period or whether Berlin withheld any items.
Once the restrictions are lifted, Germany will review military export applications on a case-by-case basis, following its standard policy, he added.
Merz’s decision to impose the restrictions in August had been viewed as a significant step by a government known for its strong support for Israel. The reversal was welcomed by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who urged other countries to follow Germany’s lead in a post on X.