Berlin Court Dismisses Urgent Request to Stop German Arms Exports to Israel
A Berlin court dismissed an urgent request by Palestinians from Gaza to halt German arms exports to Israel, citing potential violations of humanitarian law. The court ruled that Germany had not issued any arms export decisions this year and was unlikely to approve exports that violate international law.
Supported by various organizations, the plaintiffs argued that Israeli actions against Palestinians in Gaza constituted violations of humanitarian law. The court also mentioned that the German government has the authority to refuse export permits, impose conditions, or restrict weapon use by the recipient country.
Despite criticism from lawyers’ groups, Germany approved arms exports worth €326 million to Israel in 2023, a significant increase from previous years. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a devastating toll, with thousands of Palestinians killed, wounded, and displaced.
Israel is currently facing accusations of genocide before the International Court of Justice for its actions in Gaza. The situation remains dire as the conflict continues to escalate.