Germany has announced it will suspend the export of any military equipment to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip, following Israel’s approval of a military plan to seize control of Gaza City.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz said it was becoming “increasingly difficult to understand” how Israel’s planned offensive would achieve legitimate objectives.
“Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorize any export of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice,” Merz stated.
Balancing Support for Israel and Civilian Concerns
Merz reaffirmed that Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas terrorism, but voiced deep concern over the suffering of civilians in Gaza.
“With the planned offensive, the Israeli government will bear an even greater responsibility than before to supply civilians with essentials,” the chancellor said. He stopped short of explicitly condemning Israel’s plan to take control of Gaza City, home to about one million people in the northern part of the enclave.
Instead, Merz urged Israel to ensure full humanitarian access for UN agencies and non-governmental organizations, and to improve the humanitarian situation on a lasting basis, building on what he called “recent steps in the right direction.”
He also issued a strong warning against any further steps toward annexing the West Bank.
Israel’s Plan and International Reaction
Earlier today, Israel’s security cabinet approved a plan to capture Gaza City and, according to Israeli media, relocate its population to the south. The move comes hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told U.S. broadcaster Fox News that he intended to occupy the entire Gaza Strip.
The announcement has drawn criticism and concern from several international actors, particularly in Europe, where diplomatic efforts by the E3 group — Germany, France, and the United Kingdom — have been urging restraint.
Germany’s Previous Position on Arms Exports
Under former chancellor Olaf Scholz, Germany informally paused arms sales to Israel for several months in 2024, though this was never officially confirmed, and exports resumed in autumn that year.
Since taking office in May 2025, Merz has faced mounting pressure domestically and internationally to adopt a tougher stance toward Israel. While initially rejecting the idea of sanctions, Merz in recent weeks signaled a shift in tone, saying he would consider measures if Israel ignored diplomatic appeals.
Key Points
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Policy Change: Germany halts military exports usable in Gaza operations.
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Reason: Response to Israel’s plan to take control of Gaza City.
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Chancellor’s Position: Supports Israel’s right to self-defense but warns of humanitarian obligations.
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Next Steps: Calls for improved humanitarian access and avoidance of West Bank annexation.
