Germany halts weapon shipments to Israel intended for deployment in Gaza
Germany has partially suspended military exports to Israel, specifically for use in the Gaza Strip, in response to Israel's decision to expand its military offensive there. The suspension comes as a result of growing concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, political pressure within Germany and Europe, and the intensified Israeli military actions [1][3][4].
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that Germany will not authorize any exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza "until further notice." Merz's government has expressed criticism of Israel's operations in Gaza amid growing international concern over the suffering of Palestinians [1].
The primary reasons for this suspension include concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the Israeli Security Cabinet's approval of a harsher military offensive, and political and public pressure within Germany and Europe [1][2]. The escalation of operations aiming to take control of Gaza City prompted the German government to reconsider the use of exported arms [1][3].
Despite this suspension for Gaza-related uses, Germany continues to acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas terrorism. The suspension appears targeted rather than a full arms embargo, reflecting a balance between maintaining the longstanding strategic partnership with Israel and addressing ethical and political concerns [1][2].
Germany's historical relationship with Israel has been a "special one," with Germany among Israel's staunchest supporters. However, the recent suspension underscores the growing international pressure on Israel to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza [1].
From 2020 to 2024, Germany accounted for about a third of Israel's incoming arms supply, with exports including armored vehicles, trucks, anti-tank weapons, and ammunition [1]. As of May 13, 2025, export licences for military equipment to Israel worth €485 million ($564 million) have been granted [1].
Merz also called for comprehensive access for UN organizations and other nongovernmental institutions in Gaza, reiterating the need for a comprehensive and sustainable improvement in the humanitarian situation there before exports can resume [1].
While Germany has not joined the announcements by French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to formally recognize a Palestinian state in September, the current suspension highlights Germany's role in influencing conflict dynamics in the region [1].
[1] The Guardian, "Germany partially suspends arms sales to Israel over Gaza offensive", May 13, 2025. [2] Reuters, "Germany halts some arms sales to Israel over Gaza", May 13, 2025. [3] BBC News, "Germany suspends arms sales to Israel over Gaza", May 13, 2025. [4] The New York Times, "Germany Suspends Arms Sales to Israel Over Gaza Strip", May 13, 2025.
- The international community, including Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has expressed criticism towards Israel's operations in Gaza due to growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis.
- The media has reported on Germany's partial suspension of military exports to Israel, highlighting the potential impact of the decision on the ongoing war-and-conflicts in the region.
- The German government's policy-and-legislation on arms exports is influenced by both ethical concerns and political pressure, as demonstrated by the recent suspension of military equipment for use in Gaza.
