In a significant policy shift, the German government has announced a suspension of all military equipment exports that could be used in the Gaza Strip, following Israel’s plan to seize control of Gaza City. Chancellor Friedrich Merz made the announcement on Friday, stating the decision would remain in effect until further notice, reported the Al Jazeera.
The move comes after 200 German cultural figures issued an open letter to Merz, urging a complete halt to arms exports to Israel, suspension of the EU-Israel trade agreement, and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
On Friday, Israel’s security cabinet approved a controversial plan to take military control of Gaza City—the largest urban centre in the territory—prompting condemnation from the United Kingdom, China, Spain, and Turkey. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier signalled intentions to occupy the entire Gaza Strip, the approved plan specifically targets Gaza City.
Merz expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis, stating that “the even tougher military action in the Gaza Strip decided upon by the Israeli cabinet last night makes it increasingly difficult to see how peace goals can be achieved.” He stressed that Germany’s priorities remain the release of hostages and progress toward a ceasefire, while also acknowledging Israel’s “right to disarm Hamas” and secure the release of Israeli captives.
Germany, traditionally a staunch ally of Israel, had approved export licences worth €485 million ($564 million) for military equipment to Israel between October 7, 2023, and May 13, 2025. The latest decision marks a notable break from its 22-month-long policy of consistent military support during the ongoing war on Gaza.
Meanwhile, UN human rights chief Volker Turk called for the immediate cancellation of Israel’s takeover plan, stating it violates the International Court of Justice’s ruling for Israel to end its occupation, undermines the two-state solution, and obstructs Palestinians’ right to self-determination.
Since the start of the war, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has killed at least 61,258 Palestinians, wounded 152,045, and left thousands missing amid a worsening humanitarian catastrophe.
