Germany halts arms exports to Israel over Gaza military plans
Berlin suspends military equipment transfers amid rising concerns over hostage safety and civilian toll
Germany has suspended all arms exports to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip, in a significant policy shift tied to Israel’s planned military expansion in Gaza City.
In a statement on Thursday, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his government would not authorise the delivery of any military equipment “that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice,” citing growing unease over Israel’s strategy.
It marks a sharp break from Berlin’s longstanding support for Israel and comes amid fears that the planned offensive could worsen the humanitarian crisis and jeopardise ongoing hostage negotiations.
“The release of the Israeli hostages and negotiations for a ceasefire are Germany’s top priorities,” Merz said, while expressing concern over the suffering of civilians in the Gaza Strip.
He added that it had become “increasingly difficult to understand” how Israel’s military operation would help secure its legitimate aims of disarming Hamas and bringing the hostages home.
The decision was announced after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he intended to take full control of Gaza City, though he claimed Israel did “not want to keep” the territory long term.
Germany’s export suspension applies to any weapons systems or components that could be used in Gaza, though other military cooperation agreements may remain in place.
The move is likely to spark tensions between Berlin and Jerusalem at a time when international pressure is mounting on Israel to end the war and prioritise a negotiated settlement.
Germany had previously stood firmly with Israel after the 7 October attacks, which saw over 1,200 people killed and more than 250 taken hostage by Hamas and other terror groups. But public criticism of the war’s conduct has grown in recent months, particularly as civilian casualties in Gaza have mounted.
Israel has yet to issue a formal response to Berlin’s announcement.
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