Germany faced accusations on Tuesday that its arms sales to Israel were aiding genocide in Gaza, as the International Court of Justice heard arguments from Nicaragua against the European nation. Despite these claims, Germany defended itself, maintaining that the majority of the equipment provided to Israel since October 7 was nonlethal. Furthermore, Germany highlighted its significant contributions to humanitarian aid for the Palestinians.

The case at the U.N. court in The Hague has sparked a debate about Germany’s unwavering support for Israel amidst the conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Germany, known for its strong backing of Israel as a means of atonement for the Holocaust, now faces scrutiny over the extent of its support. The accusations brought by Nicaragua were dismissed by Germany’s lawyers as having no factual or legal basis, emphasizing that Israel, the alleged perpetrator, was not party to the case.

Nicaragua’s argument that Germany was complicit in genocide in Gaza by aiding Israel financially and militarily was met with criticism from some German news media. The irony of facing accusations from a country led by an authoritarian president with a checkered human rights record did not go unnoticed. Germany’s status as the second-largest arms supplier to Israel after the U.S. has also come under scrutiny.

The case in The Hague has reignited concerns in Berlin about the implications of unconditional support for Israel on Germany’s international relationships and reputation. With the civilian death toll mounting in Gaza, the debate over Germany’s stance on the conflict has intensified.

The proceedings at the International Court of Justice have prompted discussions in Germany about the country’s support for Israel and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Analysts suggest that Germany’s posture toward Israel may be evolving, influenced in part by criticism of Israel’s actions from its key ally, the United States.

Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock’s commitment to upholding international humanitarian law, even in times of conflict, reflects Germany’s complex position of grappling with historical guilt while advocating for human rights.

In a year marked by legal challenges against Israel at the U.N. court, Germany’s role in the conflict has been scrutinized. The court’s interventions on the alleged genocide in Gaza and the legality of Israel’s occupation of the West Bank have further complicated the situation.

While Germany has been a significant donor of humanitarian aid to Gaza, questions remain about its military support for Israel. The court case has underscored the delicate balance Germany must strike between supporting Israel and upholding the rights of Palestinians.