As Israel’s military operations in the Middle East expand, with a potential strike on Iran looming, the debate over the sources of arms supply to the Israeli military has resurfaced. This issue has gained traction following statements from leaders of three major European countries.
Israel sources approximately three-quarters of its weaponry from the United States. However, certain European decisions reflect anti-war sentiments due to internal pressures, though the operational impact on the Israeli military remains limited.
Macron’s Firm Stance
On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his call to halt arms exports used in Gaza and Lebanon. He emphasized that this is the only viable means to end the conflicts between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
In a press conference from Cyprus, Macron stated, “This is by no means a call for Israel’s disarmament, but a call to halt any destabilization in this part of the world.” He underscored the need for an immediate ceasefire, both in Gaza and Lebanon, to protect hostages, civilians, and prevent the regional expansion of the conflict.
Macron has previously sparked anger in Israel by calling for an end to arms shipments involved in the Gaza conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded that restricting Israel would only benefit Iran and its allies.
Spanish Appeals for Arms Halt
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez echoed similar sentiments on Friday, urging the international community to cease arms exports to Israel after a meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican.
Sánchez told reporters, “Given what’s happening in the Middle East, the international community must stop exporting weapons to the Israeli government.” He emphasized that doing so would help prevent the escalation of violence in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon.
Sánchez has been one of the most vocal European leaders against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza and recently described the Israeli military actions in Lebanon as an “invasion,” calling for international intervention.
Germany’s Opposing View
Contrasting with France and Spain, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced new arms deliveries to Israel on Thursday. Scholz made his statement during a parliamentary session, marking the first anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
“We have made government decisions to ensure the rapid delivery of additional arms to Israel. We did not halt arms supplies,” Scholz said, countering accusations that Germany had delayed arms shipments to Israel.
Previous European Decisions
Several European governments had previously reduced military support for Israel amid its devastating war on Gaza, which has resulted in approximately 42,000 Palestinian deaths and nearly 100,000 injuries.
The UK suspended about 30 licenses for military equipment exports to Israel, citing concerns over Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law. Italy also halted issuing new arms export permits to Israel but continues to fulfill pre-existing orders. The Netherlands suspended the export of F-16 and F-35 fighter parts, while Belgium’s Brussels and Wallonia governments banned arms exports to Israel entirely.
