Overview
- In two separate cases, the Berlin Administrative Court ruled the claims inadmissible and did not examine the underlying legality of past or future export decisions.
- The panel cited a changed policy environment after Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced in August a pause on approvals for war weapons usable in the Gaza conflict, and noted such export decisions lie in the executive’s core responsibility.
- A challenge to the October 31, 2023 permit for 3,000 RGW 90 (Matador) launchers delivered by Dynamit Nobel Defence was rejected because the court saw no demonstrated risk of a similar approval being repeated.
- Plaintiffs and their counsel said they will seek leave to appeal to the Berlin‑Brandenburg Higher Administrative Court, criticizing limited transparency over any international‑law assessments tied to past licenses.
- Context presented in court included government figures showing about €250 million in permits to Israel between January and August 8, 2025 and at least €2.46 million in September, testimony on civilian harm, heightened courtroom security, and the death of one plaintiff during the proceedings.