Cease weapons exports to Israel, Berlin urges.
In a historic move, Germany has suspended arms exports to Israel for use in Gaza, following Israel's Security Cabinet decision to seize Gaza City amid the ongoing conflict. This decision, announced by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on August 9, 2025, marks a significant shift from Germany's historically supportive stance towards Israel.
The suspension means Germany will no longer approve military equipment exports to Israel intended for deployment in the Gaza Strip "until further notice". This move comes as Israel escalates its military operations in Gaza with the goal of dismantling Hamas and securing the release of hostages.
Chancellor Merz affirmed Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas terrorism but expressed concern that intensified Israeli military actions in Gaza make achieving hostage release and ceasefire more difficult. He also emphasized the need for Israel to allow humanitarian aid access to civilians in Gaza through UN agencies and NGOs.
Prior to the suspension, Germany had granted export licenses for military equipment to Israel worth approximately €485 million ($564 million) between October 2023 and May 2025. The current halt reflects Germany's response to the controversial Israeli military strategy in Gaza and the associated international criticism.
It's important to note that the ban does not apply to non-military equipment exports. The Chancellor's statement reiterates the German government's position that any military equipment exported could potentially be used in the Gaza war. The ban could have implications for the ongoing Gaza war, as Israel relies on international support for its military operations.
Merz's statement indicates that the ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip make it difficult for the German government to see a path to achieving its objectives. The German government's stance on the Gaza Strip remains focused on achieving a peaceful resolution.
Merz emphasizes that Hamas must be disarmed and should not be part of Gaza's future. He reiterates that the German government's criticism of Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip is not a reflection of Germany's relationship with Israel, but a reflection of its commitment to maintaining peace and humanitarian values.
This ban is a significant step in the German government's response to the situation in Gaza, signalling a shift in international sentiment towards the ongoing conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the future of the Gaza Strip and the broader Middle East region.
- The ongoing war-and-conflicts in the Gaza Strip have led to a shift in politics, with Germany suspending arms exports to Israel for use in Gaza.
- Amidst the escalating general-news surrounding the Gaza conflict, Germany has made the decision to halt military equipment exports to Israel until further notice.
