The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has recently ruled against Nicaragua’s request to stop Germany from selling military arms to Israel. This decision emerges amidst allegations by Nicaragua that Germany, by supporting Israel, was complicit in the alleged genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. Despite these claims, the court found no immediate grounds to impose restrictions on Germany’s arms dealings.

Nicaragua’s legal action spotlighted Germany as the second-largest arms supplier to Israel, with 2023 sales totaling around $326.5 million, which constituted about 30% of Israel’s military imports. The Nicaraguan government, aligned with the Palestinian liberation movement, argued that these armaments were used in war crimes by Israel, a claim that Israel has vehemently denied, asserting its military actions are focused on countering Hamas in Gaza.

In defending its position, Germany cited a decrease in arms sales and emphasized the defensive nature of the equipment provided. The German Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced satisfaction with the ruling, underlining its commitment to legal processes and humanitarian aid efforts towards Palestinians. The German government, acknowledging its historical responsibility, has maintained strong support for Israel while also expressing concern for the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The ICJ, led by President Nawaf Salam, has deferred a final judgement, stating that further proceedings could extend over several years. While rejecting emergency measures, the ICJ noted the severe living conditions faced by Palestinians but cited insufficient evidence for immediate legal action. The next steps involve considering the ICJ’s jurisdiction over the case before possibly moving forward with a comprehensive evaluation.

This legal outcome forms part of broader international legal engagements concerning the conflict in the Middle East, including a separate case involving South Africa and Israel managed by the ICJ.

Critics of Nicaragua’s initiative have pointed to the domestic human rights record under President Daniel Ortega, and questioned why Nicaragua targeted Germany specifically, given that the United States is a more significant arms supplier to Israel.