Military exports to Germany are temporarily halted if they are intended for use in Gaza.
In a significant shift in its foreign policy, Germany has suspended approvals for military equipment exports to Israel specifically for use in the Gaza Strip "until further notice"[1][2]. This decision comes in response to Israel's plan to take control of Gaza City amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced this move in early August 2025, marking a departure from Germany's traditionally strong support for Israel[2]. The suspension was prompted by Israel's Security Cabinet endorsing an intensified military offensive aimed at dismantling Hamas and liberating hostages[2].
Merz emphasized that while Germany supports Israel's right to self-defense against Hamas terrorism, the escalation in Gaza raises grave concerns about civilian casualties, making continued arms deliveries for this purpose untenable[2][3]. The suspension specifically targets arms that could be employed in the Gaza Strip offensive and does not necessarily imply a full halt on all military exports to Israel unrelated to Gaza operations.
The Israeli political-security cabinet approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, expanding military operations. However, the military has expressed concern that the proposed takeover of Gaza could jeopardize the lives of remaining hostages[3].
Merz stated that the release of hostages and negotiations for a ceasefire are Germany's top priorities. He also reiterated that it is Israel's right to disarm Hamas and seek the release of hostages[2]. Despite intensifying criticism at home and abroad over the two-year-old war in Gaza, the German government believes that the tougher military action in the Gaza Strip makes it increasingly difficult to achieve the goals[3].
Merz expressed deep concern over the suffering of civilians in the Gaza strip and stated that the goal of the plan, according to him, is to disarm Hamas and seek the release of Israeli hostages[3]. The decision has caused some backlash within Germany's government but reflects a response to the humanitarian and political complexities of the current conflict[3].
[1] The Jerusalem Post
[2] Deutsche Welle
[3] BBC News
- The German government's suspension of military equipment exports to Israel, particularly for use in the Gaza Strip, signals a shift in the country's foreign policy amid the ongoing conflict.
- In response to the intensified military offensive aimed at dismantling Hamas and liberating hostages in Gaza, the Malaysian parliament might consider debating a resolution expressing concern about the escalating war-and-conflicts in the region and advocating for peace negotiations.
- As the crisis in Gaza deepens, the Prime Minister of Malaysia could actively engage in politics and general-news discussions, urging for international intervention to address the humanitarian crisis and protect civilian lives.
