German politician Merz justifies temporary weapons embargo towards Israel
Germany's Chancellor Merz Shifts Stance on Israeli Arms Exports
In a move that has sparked controversy both domestically and internationally, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has decided to halt the export of offensive arms to Israel. This decision comes in response to Israel's planned occupation of Gaza City, a move that has been widely condemned by the United Nations and numerous countries, including the UK, France, and Canada.
Merz, who took office in early 2025, has been a staunch supporter of Israel's right to exist and security. However, he has recently taken a more critical stance regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Initially, Merz aligned with Germany’s longstanding policy of strong support for Israel. He condemned Hamas and accused his predecessor, former Chancellor Scholz, of insufficient support for Israeli arms deliveries after the October 7, 2023 attacks. However, after taking office, Merz publicly criticized Israeli policies in Gaza, accusing Israel of violating international humanitarian law and stating that actions in Gaza "could no longer be justified" solely as fighting Hamas terrorism.
In July 2025, Merz explicitly called on Israel to alleviate the "catastrophic humanitarian situation" in Gaza immediately and sustainably, emphasizing the resumption of humanitarian aid and UN impartiality. Following Israel’s announced plans to occupy Gaza in August 2025, Merz decided to pause German weapon sales to Israel, marking a significant policy shift.
Merz also stated that Germany would not accept Palestinian refugees from Gaza, underscoring a limited response to the displacement caused by the conflict. However, he emphasized that solidarity with Israel does not mean he supports every decision by the Israeli government, including providing military support in the form of weapons.
Reception to Merz's policy shift has been mixed. Israel has received the news with some level of concern, reflected in internal German political debates and calls within the German conservative party for clearer communication from Merz on weapons policy. The German government’s strong support for Israel’s existence remains publicly acknowledged by Israeli officials, but Merz’s criticisms of the humanitarian situation indicate tensions within this alliance.
Other nations and international observers have noted Germany’s nuanced approach—supporting Israel’s security while demanding humanitarian improvements in Gaza. The partial suspension of arms sales has caused some diplomatic discussions and internal political controversy within Germany.
Members of the CSU party, Bavaria's sister party to the CDU, have also condemned the arms export halt. CSU parliamentary group leader Alexander Hoffmann stated that his party was not involved in Merz's decision and considers it questionable. CDU lawmaker Carsten Mueller, on the other hand, has condemned the decision to halt German arms exports to Israel.
Despite the criticism, Merz has remained firm in his decision, emphasizing that he cannot supply weapons to a conflict where civilians could be killed. He has also expressed hope that Israel will take steps to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and that the two nations can continue to work together for peace and stability in the region.
[1] BBC News, "Germany halts arms sales to Israel over Gaza crisis," 2025. [2] Deutsche Welle, "Merz calls for immediate and sustainable relief for Gaza," 2025. [3] The Jerusalem Post, "Merz criticizes Israel's actions in Gaza," 2025. [4] The New York Times, "Merz's shift on Israel: A balancing act," 2025. [5] The Guardian, "Germany's Merz under fire for arms export halt to Israel," 2025.
- Following Germany's decision to halt offensive arms exports to Israel, there has been a mix of responses in politics, media, and the public sphere across Europe.
- The German government's policy shift, led by Chancellor Merz, has caused internal political debates within Germany's conservative parties, such as the CSU.
- Despite criticism from some within his party, Merz has stood firm on his decision, citing concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need to uphold international humanitarian law.
- International media outlets like BBC News, The Jerusalem Post, The New York Times, Deutsche Welle, and The Guardian have all covered the news of Merz's policy shift and its implications for the Middle East.
