Israel experiences an arms embargo by Germany after receiving approval for the invasion of Gaza
In a significant shift from its historically strong support for Israel, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on August 2025 that Germany will suspend arms exports to Israel for use in the Gaza Strip indefinitely[1]. This decision comes after Israel's Security Cabinet approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, a move that Germany views as escalating military operations and putting civilians at risk.
The change in policy is directly linked to Israel's decision to intensify its military offensive in Gaza. While Merz reaffirmed Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas terrorism, he emphasized Germany’s concern about the humanitarian impact and the need for a ceasefire and unrestricted aid access to Gaza[1].
The suspension of military equipment deployment in Gaza is aimed at pressuring Israel towards negotiated de-escalation and humanitarian access[1][2]. However, some analyses suggest the ban may not apply entirely to all forms of military support, implying a complex balance in Germany's stance between defense cooperation and concern about the conflict's escalation[2].
In addition to the suspension of military equipment transfers, Chancellor Merz has called for UN agencies and relief groups to be able to send food across the Gaza Strip without any problems. He expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and urged Israel to take responsibility for keeping people safe in Gaza City[1].
The Israeli military's current plan does not seem to help Israel reach its legitimate goals, according to Chancellor Merz. He further advised Israel against any further steps toward annexing the West Bank[1].
Meanwhile, the US has sent weapons to help the Lebanese army fight against jihadists who have staged incursions from Syria. The shipment included 72 M198 howitzers and over 25 million rounds of artillery[3].
Chancellor Merz continues to prioritize freeing Israeli prisoners and making progress toward a peace deal. However, the ongoing military operation in the Gaza Strip, which has been ongoing for almost two years, will expand with this decision[4]. The halt in military equipment transfers to Israel will last "until further notice."
References: 1. BBC News 2. Deutsche Welle 3. Reuters 4. Al Jazeera
- Germany's announcement to indefinitely suspend arms exports to Israel for use in the Gaza Strip is due to concerns about the escalation of military operations and the risk to civilians.
- Chancellor Merz has urged Israel to prioritize a ceasefire and unrestricted aid access to Gaza, and has also called for UN agencies and relief groups to be able to send food across the Gaza Strip without problems.
- While Germany supports Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas terrorism, it is pressing Israel towards negotiated de-escalation and humanitarian access in Gaza.
- The suspension of military equipment deployment to Israel may not apply entirely to all forms of military support, suggesting a complex balance in Germany's stance between defense cooperation and concern about the conflict's escalation.
