After Germany, Europe Seeks Israeli Arms Embargo
Human rights commissioner calls on 46 member states to halt weapons exports, citing Gaza war — move follows Berlin’s suspension of arms sales.
The Council of Europe has recommended that its 46 member states stop supplying weapons to Israel, claiming concerns over potential use in alleged human rights violations in Gaza. The call comes just days after Germany announced an arms embargo on Israel — a move widely viewed as a major policy shift by one of Israel’s long-time strategic partners.
In a statement released Tuesday, Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty urged all member states to ensure that no weapons are exported that could be used “to commit violations of international law” in the context of the Gaza conflict.
O’Flaherty called on governments to “use all means at their disposal” to prevent arms transfers that could contribute to “human rights abuses or breaches of international humanitarian law.”
Last week, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the suspension of weapons exports to Israel, breaking with Berlin’s traditionally pro-Israel stance. O’Flaherty said that while this was a significant step, broader and faster action was needed from all member states.
Headquartered in Strasbourg, the Council of Europe plays a key oversight role on democracy and human rights in Europe. In June, O’Flaherty also criticized German authorities for restricting freedom of expression and assembly during protests related to the Gaza conflict.