Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza has drawn significant attention to its military capabilities and the sources of its weaponry. As Israel continues its intense aerial campaign, many Western governments face mounting pressure to halt arms sales to Israel, particularly due to concerns about the impact on civilians in Gaza.
Reliance on Imported Weaponry
While Israel is known as a major weapons exporter, much of its military strength relies on imported aircraft, guided bombs, and missiles. These imports have enabled Israel to conduct one of the most destructive aerial campaigns in recent history. Despite Israel’s insistence that it seeks to minimize civilian casualties, critics argue that it has not done enough to protect civilians or ensure sufficient humanitarian aid reaches Gaza.
Western Allies Under Scrutiny
Several Western countries that supply arms to Israel are under scrutiny for their role in the conflict. For instance, the UK recently suspended about 30 export licenses for military equipment to Israel, citing concerns over Israel’s compliance with international humanitarian law. Although the UK’s contributions are relatively small compared to Israel’s total arms imports, the decision sparked strong reactions from Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it “shameful.”
The United States: Israel’s Largest Arms Supplier
The United States is Israel’s most significant arms supplier, accounting for 69% of Israel’s major conventional arms imports between 2019 and 2023. The U.S. provides $3.8 billion annually in military aid to Israel, including $500 million specifically for missile defense programs like the Iron Dome and David’s Sling. These systems have been crucial in defending Israel from rocket, missile, and drone attacks during the conflict.
In addition to regular military aid, the U.S. has expedited deliveries of thousands of guided bombs and missiles to Israel since the start of the conflict. However, some deliveries have been paused due to concerns about potential civilian casualties in Gaza.
Germany’s Significant Contributions
Germany is another key supplier of arms to Israel, responsible for 30% of its imports between 2019 and 2023. Notably, Israel signed a €3 billion deal with Germany to purchase advanced Dakar-class submarines, expected to be delivered in the 2030s. Despite the ongoing conflict, Germany’s arms sales to Israel have continued, with significant increases in export licenses since October 2023.
Italy and the United Kingdom
Italy, though a smaller contributor, has also exported military equipment to Israel, including helicopters and naval artillery. In 2023, despite its government’s assurances that it was blocking arms sales to warring countries, Italy continued to fulfill existing contracts with Israel.
The UK, similarly, has a smaller share in Israel’s arms imports but has been active in granting licenses for components used in military aircraft and vehicles. The UK’s recent suspension of some export licenses underscores the growing international debate over arms sales to Israel.
Israel’s Indigenous Defense Industry
Israel has developed a robust defense industry, becoming the ninth-largest arms exporter globally. Its focus is on advanced technological products rather than large-scale hardware. In 2023, Israel’s defense exports were valued at over $13 billion, with air defense systems being a significant component.
The US Military Stockpile in Israel
In addition to imports, Israel has access to a vast US arms depot on its soil, set up in 1984 to provide quick access to weapons in emergencies. Some of these stockpiled munitions have reportedly been supplied to Israel since the start of the Gaza conflict.
The ongoing war in Gaza has highlighted Israel’s reliance on imported weaponry, particularly from the United States, Germany, and other Western allies. As international pressure mounts, the future of these arms supplies remains uncertain, especially with growing concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian aid in Gaza.
