Israel has reportedly achieved record-breaking arms sales in 2024, capitalizing on the perceived effectiveness of its weaponry during the recent conflict in Gaza. Data suggests that revenues from arms exports reached $15 billion, marking a significant increase. The sales pitch centered around the ‘battle-tested’ nature of the weapons, a direct result of their deployment during the extensive military operations in Gaza, which began in October 2023 and lasted for nearly two years.
According to a statement released by the Israeli government in June, the majority of exports consisted of missiles, projectiles, and advanced air defense systems. European militaries accounted for over half of these shipments, while other significant deliveries were made to countries in the Asia-Pacific region, with India being a primary recipient. Israel ranks among the world’s top ten arms exporters.
The surge in arms sales comes at a time when Israel faces intense international scrutiny and accusations of genocide related to its actions in Gaza. The International Criminal Court has even issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, alleging war crimes.
Critics argue that Israel is exploiting the Gaza conflict to market its weapons, leveraging the perception of impunity. According to Antony Loewenstein, author of ‘The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation,’ Israel is selling the idea of ‘getting away with it.’ He suggests this holds considerable appeal for numerous other nations.
Sher Hever, a specialist in the Israeli arms trade, contends that countries importing Israeli weapons are aware of the ethical and legal implications. He emphasizes that these importers are cognizant of the ongoing situation in Gaza and the potential illegality of engaging in commercial transactions with a nation accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Israeli arms exports also encompass artificial intelligence and surveillance technologies, including facial recognition systems. These systems have been installed in numerous locations throughout the occupied West Bank and are reportedly used extensively in Gaza.
