Germany approved the export of an undisclosed number of Matador rocket launchers to Israel in the second half of 2024, according to a report published by “Die Zeit” weekly. The authorization occurred at a time when concerns regarding potential war crimes committed by the Israeli military in Gaza were being voiced, including by high-ranking UN officials, the publication reports.
Evidence indicates the Matador weapon system has been deployed in close-quarters combat within the Gaza Strip. “Die Zeit’s” investigation is based on classified documents and interviews with former government officials involved in the decision-making process.
Previously, it was known that the German government authorized the export of 3,000 Matador rocket launchers to Israel following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, alongside other arms deliveries.
The report further details a commitment made by the Israeli Defense Ministry on October 8, 2024. According to the document, all weapons or military equipment supplied from Germany, or containing parts originating from Germany, will be used solely in accordance with international humanitarian law.
The German government had requested such a commitment, following a temporary reduction in export approvals, before subsequently increasing authorizations again. The document does not contain an explicit assurance that German weapons will not be deployed within the Gaza Strip.
