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Germany has suspended exports of weaponry that could be used in Gaza, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approval of a military plan to seize Gaza City. This, making it the first time since reunification that Berlin has withheld military support from its long-time ally.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the halt and cited mounting domestic pressure, humanitarian concerns, and restrictions on supplies. Merz reiterated support for Israel's right to disarm Hamas. A June poll found 73% of Germans favor tighter controls on arms exports. The same survey showed 30% support a total ban. Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil called the suspension the right decision and described the humanitarian situation as unbearable.
According to SIPRI Germany accounted for 30% of Israel's major arms imports from 2019 to 2023. Parliament records show export licences valued at €485 million, roughly $564 million, were granted between October 7, 2023 and May 13, 2025. Germany has delivered naval systems including Sa'ar 6 class frigates which have been used during the Gaza campaign.
Meron Mendel described the reversal as a hard blow to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Israel's security cabinet approved the Gaza City takeover as a first phase of a broader plan that could extend to the entire territory.
UN human rights chief Volker Türk warned "more massive forced displacement, more killing, more unbearable suffering" if the operation proceeds. UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said the plan was wrong and urged restraint. Families of hostages in Israel voiced fears that a ground takeover could endanger lives and complicate release efforts.
The move marks a rare break in longstanding German support rooted in historical responsibility. Merz urged Israel to prioritize ceasefire talks, hostage releases, and protections for civilians. Gaza City housed about 775,000 people before the war, spans under 18 square miles, and ranks among the world's most densely populated cities. Al Shifa Hospital was largely destroyed by a two week raid last year. Its emergency department has since reopened to provide limited care.
Israeli estimates suggest Hamas fighters number about eighteen thousand today. International agencies caution that a ground takeover would produce significant civilian displacement and strain humanitarian relief operations.
The debate is ongoing.
