Berlin: Israel expects Germany to lift its partial arms export ban and travel advisory following the Gaza ceasefire, Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel said on Wednesday.
During her visit to Berlin, Haskel told reporters that Israel believes the German government will soon reverse both restrictions now that hostilities in Gaza have ended. “We do expect the German government to lift those two restrictions,” she said.
Haskel also expressed Israel’s support for German involvement in the Gaza peace process. “We see the German government as trustworthy to participate,” she said, adding that Israel would welcome German participation in any future peacekeeping mission.
When asked whether historical sensitivities could affect Germany’s involvement, Haskel responded, “We trust you,” noting the solidarity shown by Germans after the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
Germany approves arms deal with Israel despite export ban announcementhttps://t.co/wMPuLgOxZx
— Middle East Monitor (@MiddleEastMnt) August 27, 2025In August, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz ordered a temporary halt to arms exports that could be used in the Gaza conflict, citing concerns about Israel’s military actions. Until that point, Berlin had gradually increased its criticism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government but avoided imposing sanctions.
Following the recent agreement between Israel and Hamas to begin peace talks, Merz said the restrictions would be reviewed. He added that any decision would be coordinated within Germany’s ruling coalition.
Read: Hamas Hands Over More Hostage Bodies as Israel Limits Aid to Gaza
Leaders of Merz’s conservative bloc have called for a swift end to the export ban. However, the centre-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), the junior coalition partner, has not yet announced its position.
After the Gaza conflict began, Germany’s Foreign Office issued a travel advisory against visiting Israel. The warning remains in place, covering the entire country. Israeli officials hope the advisory will soon be withdrawn as security conditions stabilise under the ceasefire.
