Germany withdraws military aid to Israel following authorization of Gaza invasion
In a significant shift from its usual position, Germany has announced a halt in military equipment exports to Israel, effective "until further notice." The decision comes in response to the Israeli government's plan to expand military operations and take control of Gaza City, a move that has been met with growing international criticism and concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and criticized the Israeli Cabinet's decision, stating it is becoming harder to see how it helps Israel reach its legitimate goals. Merz also advised Israel against taking more steps toward annexing the West Bank.
The suspension of military exports marks a departure from Germany's historically strong support for Israel, citing a special responsibility stemming from the Holocaust. However, the government emphasized that it remains concerned about the civilian suffering in Gaza and urged Israel to allow comprehensive humanitarian aid access for UN and other organizations. The Israeli operation, they stated, entails greater responsibility on Israel's part for ensuring civilian needs are met.
Germany's current policy is a partial but firm suspension of military exports to Israel specifically for use in Gaza, reflecting both political disapproval of Israel's recent actions and humanitarian concerns, while still affirming Israel's right to self-defense under different circumstances.
Meanwhile, the Lebanese army has received US weapons, including 72 M198 power supply howitzers and over 25 million rounds of artillery, aiming to bolster its capabilities in the ongoing conflict with various militant groups.
The decision to take control of Gaza City is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has been ongoing for several years. The plan adds to Israel's ongoing military operation in the Gaza Strip, which has been going on for almost two years. The move by Germany shows Europe's growing concern over Israel's military actions in Gaza and the worsening humanitarian situation there.
Merz urged the UN agencies and relief groups to be able to send food across the Gaza Strip without any problems, as the humanitarian situation in the region is expected to worsen with the expansion of the military operation. The Israeli government is now more responsible than ever for keeping people safe in Gaza.
[1] German Chancellor halts military equipment exports to Israel over Gaza concerns
[2] Germany suspends military exports to Israel over Gaza concerns
[3] Germany's shift on Israel arms sales signals new era
[4] Germany halts military exports to Israel over Gaza concerns
[5] Germany suspends military exports to Israel over Gaza concerns
[1] Headline: German Chancellor halts military equipment exports to Israel over Gaza concerns
[2] Amidst growing international criticism, Germany suspends military exports to Israel for the use in Gaza.
[3] Germany's decision to halt military exports to Israel marks a shift in the country's historically strong support, reflecting humanitarian and political concerns over the current situation in Gaza.
[4] In a significant move, Germany halts military exports to Israel as a response to the ongoing tensions and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
[5] The suspension of military exports to Israel by Germany is a testament to Europe's growing concern over Israel's actions in Gaza, with humanitarian issues at the forefront.
