BERLIN – Germany has decided to suspend all military exports to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip, responding directly to Israel’s recent plan to expand military operations in Gaza, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced in an interview in early August 2025. Merz emphasized that Germany cannot supply weapons for a conflict now being pursued exclusively by military means and expressed a preference for diplomatic solutions instead.
The decision marks a significant shift for Germany, historically one of Israel’s closest allies and a major weapons supplier. Germany has long supported Israel partly due to its historical responsibility stemming from the Nazi Holocaust. However, the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Israel’s plans for full military dominance over the enclave have led Berlin to reconsider its arms export policy. Merz warned that the operation could claim hundreds of thousands of civilian lives and would require evacuating the entire Gaza City, questioning where displaced people could safely go.
Despite halting arms supplies that could be used in Gaza, Germany reaffirmed its steadfast support for Israel’s right to defend itself and called for humanitarian aid access from international organizations. Merz also cautioned Israel against annexing the West Bank amid contentious debates within Germany’s coalition government over this policy shift.
This move by Germany has stirred international and domestic political reactions, including calls for a ceasefire from other European nations. It reflects growing concerns over the humanitarian toll in Gaza, including increasing civilian casualties, malnutrition, and restricted access to aid. Germany urges Israel for responsible conduct and full humanitarian access as part of ending the crisis.