Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced that the country will not approve arms exports to Israel for use in the Gaza Strip “until further notice.” This decision comes after Israel’s Security Cabinet approved a plan to take over Gaza City, which has sparked international condemnation and opposition from hostage families.
Merz reiterated that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas terrorism, but also emphasized the need for releasing hostages and negotiating a ceasefire. However, he stated that the planned military action in Gaza makes it difficult to achieve these goals.
Germany had previously been one of Israel’s strongest allies, providing about a third of its incoming arms supply between 2020 and 2024. However, there is growing public support in Germany for increased pressure on Israel over the conflict.
The decision marks a change in tone for Germany, which has long had a “special relationship” with Israel due to its history of the Holocaust. The German government has already criticized Israel’s operations in Gaza, but this move takes it further by suspending arms exports.
It is not clear which specific military equipment will be halted, but export licenses worth €485 million were granted to Israel between 2023 and 2025. The fate of hostages still being held captive in Gaza remains a major concern for the German government.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/germany-suspends-arms-exports-to-israel-for-use-in-gaza/a-73569858