Germany has announced it will suspend all exports of military equipment to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip, in response to Israel’s newly approved plan to take control of Gaza City. The move, revealed by Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday, marks a significant policy shift for Berlin, which has long been regarded as one of Israel’s staunchest international allies.
Merz said it had become “increasingly difficult to understand” how Israel’s planned military offensive would advance the legitimate goals of disarming Hamas and securing the release of hostages. “Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorise any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice,” he said in a statement.
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The chancellor also stressed that with the planned offensive, Israel “bears even greater responsibility” to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches Gaza’s civilian population. He reiterated Germany’s call for full and unhindered access for UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations to deliver aid.
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International concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to grow, with a UN-backed report warning that famine is already unfolding in the territory. Merz further urged Israel to refrain from any moves toward annexing the West Bank, a step that would likely heighten tensions and draw further international criticism.
The decision underscores a deepening rift between Israel and some of its closest European allies, as the war nears its two-year mark and questions mount over both its humanitarian toll and its long-term political outcome.
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