Newly revealed documents show that Germany consulted with Israel before defending itself at the ICJ in Nicaragua’s case alleging Berlin’s complicity in Israel’s actions in Gaza, raising questions over transparency and military aid claims.
Berlin Consulted Israel Ahead of ICJ Hearings
Germany reportedly coordinated closely with Israel before presenting its defence at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, in a case accusing Berlin of supporting Israel’s alleged genocide in Gaza, according to Stern magazine.
Documents from Germany’s Ministry of Defence reveal that official consultations took place between Berlin and Tel Aviv in the days leading up to Germany’s ICJ appearance in April 2024. The case, initiated by Nicaragua, charged Germany with aiding Israel’s military operations in Gaza through arms exports and political backing.
Discrepancies in Germany’s Court Statements
During the April 8 hearing, Germany’s representative informed the ICJ that Israel did not receive any combat weapons from Bundeswehr stockpiles in 2023. However, documents obtained by Stern and investigative outlet Drop Site suggest the situation may have been more complex.
Nicaragua’s legal team had highlighted the delivery of 10,000 units of 120-millimeter tank ammunition, claiming they were intended for Israeli use. While the German representative confirmed that Israel had made such a request, they said the delivery was still under review—implying it had not been executed at that time.
Despite this, the internal documents reportedly raise doubts over whether the statement to the Court was complete and transparent, as the Ministry of Defence’s correspondence appears to indicate ongoing military cooperation discussions.
Germany’s Official Position
In court, Germany maintained that its aid to Israel was limited to “medical supplies and protective equipment such as helmets,” denying any direct transfer of weapons or ammunition from its army’s reserves during 2023.
This line of defence aimed to reinforce Berlin’s stance that it supports Israel’s right to self-defence while acting within international humanitarian law.
Rising Scrutiny Over Berlin’s Role in Gaza
The revelations have reignited debate within Germany about the extent of its support for Israel during the Gaza conflict. Critics argue that Berlin’s policies contradict its obligations under the Genocide Convention and international law, especially as civilian casualties in Gaza continue to mount.
Germany is one of Israel’s largest arms suppliers, second only to the United States. Human rights organisations have repeatedly urged Berlin to suspend weapons exports amid evidence of civilian harm in GazaDiplomatic and Legal Implications
If proven that Germany coordinated its ICJ defence strategy with Israel, it could undermine Berlin’s credibility before the Court and raise ethical and legal concerns about impartiality.
The ICJ case filed by Nicaragua seeks a ruling that Germany’s military and political support for Israel makes it complicit in alleged war crimes and genocide. While the Court has yet to issue a final decision, this revelation adds a new layer of complexity to the proceedings.
Comments are closed.