Germany says it is ready to send weapons to help Iraqi Kurds fight the Islamic State militant group.
After other European countries said they would send arms, Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier told a news conference on August 20 that Germany is "ready to do the same."
Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen said Germany is examining what weapons it can provide and will decide in one week.
Steinmeier said Germany understands the risks attached and will show moderation.
Iraq's Kurds are struggling to overcome Islamic State fighters who have overrun much of northern Iraq.
The European Union last week gave individual EU governments the green light to supply them with arms and ammunition. France and the Czech Republic have pledged to do so.
Germany has largely shied away from direct involvement in military conflicts since World War II.