Germany has announced it is suspending select arms exports to Israel, specifically military equipment that could be used in the conflict in Gaza. The decision, announced by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, comes in response to mounting global backlash and growing public outrage in Germany over Israel’s military actions. Merz stated that it is becoming “increasingly difficult” to see how Israel’s stated goals can be achieved, and he condemned the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The suspension is not a complete embargo; it excludes air defense and naval systems and only applies to equipment that could be deployed in the Gaza Strip. The move follows similar announcements from other Western countries, though some critics have pointed out that loopholes often allow arms shipments to continue. Germany has traditionally been a strong supporter of Israel, but this latest move reflects a significant shift in its policy.
The announcement was accompanied by a call for full humanitarian aid access to Gaza and a warning against any further annexation of the West Bank. This policy shift places Germany among a growing number of nations expressing concerns over the conduct of the conflict.
Sources:
Deutsche Welle: Germany halts some military sales to Israel over Gaza concerns
The Times of Israel: Germany joins chorus of international criticism of Israel’s military actions
