Maintaining external relationships with Central and Eastern European nations remains a priority for the Commission, as demonstrated by multiple actions taken in this regard.
The German government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has decided to halt arms exports to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip. This suspension is a response to Israel's Security Cabinet approving a plan to reoccupy Gaza City, a move that Germany views as escalating the conflict and making it difficult to achieve humanitarian and hostage-release objectives.
The decision reflects a balancing act: continuing to support Israel's security while expressing deep concern over the expanded offensive and its impact on Palestinians. Chancellor Merz, representing the Union-led government, reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas terrorism but emphasized that the intensified military operations complicate humanitarian efforts and negotiations for a ceasefire.
The opposition to the Israeli plan is not limited to the German government. Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed disappointment during a call with Merz, underscoring the diplomatic tension caused by this policy shift. Relatives of hostages held by the terrorist organization Hamas have also expressed opposition to Israel's military operation in the Gaza Strip.
The suspension of certain arms exports applies to arms that could be used in the Gaza Strip, according to Chancellor's Office Minister Thorsten Frei. However, it does not affect exports that serve Israel's self-defense, such as air defense or sea defense.
The Union faction appears divided on the issue, with some members, like Jürgen Hardt, calling the decision "inevitable," while others, like Roderich Kiesewetter, consider it a "serious political and strategic mistake." The Young Union has also criticized the government's decision.
Parliamentary State Secretary Matthias Hauer, from the Federal Ministry of Research, considers the government's decision a serious mistake and a disastrous signal. Carsten Müller, a CDU member of the German Bundestag, strongly condemns the federal government's decision and highlights the importance of security policy cooperation with Israel. Norbert Röttgen, an external affairs politician, has condemned the recent decisions of the Israeli government. CSU parliamentary group leader Alexander Hoffmann has also criticized the federal government's decision, stating it requires explanation.
A video conference of foreign policy experts in the Bundestag faction is planned for Sunday to discuss current foreign policy developments, including the situation in the Gaza Strip. The sensitivity of the topic is indicated by the fact that a spontaneous meeting on a Sunday during the summer break is taking place.
In summary, the current stance of the German government is to pause arms exports to avoid contributing to the Gaza offensive, while still acknowledging Israel's security needs. They call for increased humanitarian aid access and negotiations to resolve the conflict.
The German government's policy-and-legislation to halt arms exports to Israel is a part of the broader general-news, showing politics at play in addressing war-and-conflicts, particularly in the Gaza Strip. The controversy surrounding this decision has resulted in politics among the Union faction, with differing opinions expressed by various members.
