Germany's Arms Export Ban Sparks Debate on Sweden's Military Sales to Israel

Germany's recent decision to halt military equipment exports that could be utilized in Gaza is expected to significantly affect Sweden's arms export policies, according to political experts. Ulf Bjereld, a political science professor, notes that the Swedish opposition is poised to demand a reduction in arms exports to Israel, echoing Germany's actions against Israel amid rising international scrutiny.

Germany ranks as Israel's second-largest arms supplier, providing around one-third of its military imports from 2020 to 2024. This move comes in the wake of France’s October 2023 ban on offensive arms exports to Israel, triggering a broader conversation about military sales across Europe. Bjereld suggests that these developments may lead to a reassessment of arms export policies in Sweden, especially as public opinion may shift in response to political pressures.

Sweden has seen an uptick in arms exports to Israel, with recent data showing substantial sales of artillery and surveillance systems. Notably, a controversial deal with Israeli firm Elbit worth 1.7 billion SEK was signed in October 2023, aimed at enhancing Swedish military communication systems over the next decade. Bjereld predicts that this agreement and Sweden's overall arms export strategy will be heavily scrutinized as public sentiment evolves alongside these geopolitical changes.