Against International Law and Strategic Interest: German Arms Exports to Israel Since 7 October 2023

The new PRIF Report discusses the legal and political dimensions of German arms exports to Israel since October 7, 2023. In view of Israel's actions, which violate Inter­national Law, is Germany itself not violating German law and Inter­national Law with its export practices?

What kind of military action are these exports supporting, and what are the consequences for regional security? Hanna Pfeifer and Matthias Goldmann explain the legal framework for German arms exports and assess German licensing practices. They also analyze the dynamics of violence in Israel, Palestine, and neighboring areas. Finally, they highlight possible legal and political consequences for Germany and offer recommendations for German policy toward Israel.

Dr. Hanna Pfeifer is Head of the Research Area Societal Peace and Internal Security at the Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy at the University of Hamburg, as well as an Associated Fellow at PRIF's Research Department Intrastate Conflict.

Prof. Dr. Matthias Goldmann holds the Chair of International Law at EBS University. He is also a Senior Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Comparative Public Law and International Law in Heidelberg.

The report is available for download (PDF).