Germany has announced its approval for the delivery of 150 IRIS-T air-to-air missiles to Saudi Arabia, signaling a notable policy reversal after years of prohibiting arms exports to the kingdom. The restrictions, implemented by Berlin in 2018, were in response to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This decision reflects a shift in Germany's stance on arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

Government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit verified a report by the German weekly Spiegel during a daily press conference, confirming Berlin's authorization for the sale of 150 IRIS-T air-to-air missiles to Riyadh. He stated that the details in the report were accurate. Hebestreit further explained that the IRIS-T missiles have the capability to be launched from aircraft to target airborne threats such as missiles and drones.

According to a report by Spiegel, Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government has undergone a significant policy shift, authorizing the delivery of missiles to Saudi Arabia. The approval, granted toward the end of last year, pertains to the dispatch of IRIS-T missiles, produced by German arms maker Diehl, for use by Saudi Arabia's Eurofighter jets.

A security source cited by Reuters revealed that this missile shipment aims to replenish depleted Saudi stocks, particularly as the kingdom has recently utilized these missiles to intercept drones launched from Houthi-controlled Yemen.

Berlin has even commended Saudi Arabia's "constructive approach," particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. This marks a notable shift in Germany's stance on arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

During a visit to Jerusalem, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock acknowledged Saudi Arabia's significant contribution to Israel's security, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Baerbock highlighted that Saudi efforts have played a crucial role in containing the risk of the conflict spreading across the region.

She also noted Riyadh's endeavours to intercept missiles launched at Israel by Iran-backed Houthi rebels based in Yemen. Chancellor Scholz and Baerbock further announced that Germany will no longer impede British plans to sell additional Eurofighters to Saudi Arabia.

Currently, Saudi Arabia has 72 Eurofighters, and the UK seeks to supply an additional 48 pending German approval. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, discussing energy and economic cooperation in Saudi Arabia, highlighted the kingdom's role in stabilizing the Middle East, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's commitment to preventing escalation.

Image source: AP News