Germany's military, the Bundeswehr, has refrained from providing arms to Israel since the onset of the Gaza offensive. - German military, Bundeswehr, has withheld weapon supply to Israel since the onset of Gaza offensive.
In a notable move, Germany has suspended the export of military goods to Israel intended for use in the Gaza Strip, following Israel's Security Cabinet's approval of a military plan to take over Gaza City during the 2025 Gaza offensive.
The decision, announced by Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), was made in response to concerns over the intensification of Israeli military operations, which have raised doubts about the protection of civilians and the release of hostages held by Hamas. While Merz reaffirmed Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism, he emphasized the need for humanitarian access in Gaza, stating that Germany would not approve German arms exports for use in the Gaza Strip "until further notice" amid the escalation.
This suspension marks a shift from Germany's historically strong support of Israel, but it does not change the German Armed Forces' view of Israel as a significant partner. In fact, Israel has played a crucial role in the establishment of the German Armed Forces.
The German Federal Ministry of Defense has been involved in the discussions, with Deputy government spokesman Steffen Meyer confirming that the issue has been discussed repeatedly within the government. Meyer also mentioned a close exchange with all actors regarding the topic. Reports suggest that Boris Pistorius, a member of the SPD, may be one of the actors involved in the discussions.
However, the decision has not been without controversy. There is discontent within the Union over the partial halt in arms exports, with criticism levied against Merz for not consulting with his party and faction beforehand.
Despite the current tension, the cooperation between Germany and Israel remains sensitive and conditioned by developments in the conflict and efforts to secure ceasefire and humanitarian relief. The German Armed Forces continue to value Israel as a reliable partner, a relationship that spans back to the establishment of the force.
[1] BBC News, "Germany halts arms exports to Israel over Gaza," 2023. [2] Deutsche Welle, "Germany suspends arms exports to Israel amid Gaza escalation," 2023.
The Bundeswehr, Germany's armed forces, has not delivered any weapons to Israel for use in the Gaza Strip since the beginning of the 2025 Gaza offensive, following concerns over the intensification of Israeli military operations and the protection of civilians. This suspension of arms exports, announced by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has not been without controversy, as there is discontent within the Union over the partial halt, with criticism levied against Merz for not consulting with his party and faction beforehand. Yet, the cooperation between Germany and Israel remains sensitive, conditioned by developments in the conflict, efforts to secure ceasefire, and humanitarian relief.
