Germany has suspended all authorizations for the export of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Friday.
The move comes in response to what Merz described as an escalation in Israeli military operations following a new plan approved by Israel’s security cabinet to defeat Hamas and seize control of the Palestinian territory.
Speaking in Berlin, Merz said the decision was prompted by “even tougher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip” and the worsening humanitarian situation. He stressed that Israel “must allow comprehensive access for aid deliveries, including for U.N. organizations and other non-governmental institutions” and called for “sustainable improvement” in the living conditions of civilians in Gaza.
“The humanitarian suffering in the Gaza Strip is ongoing and deeply concerning,” said Merz. While reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas’ terror, he added, “The military action now decided upon makes it increasingly difficult to see how these goals are to be achieved.”
As reported by Bild, the German chancellor also urged the Israeli government not to take further steps toward annexing the West Bank, warning that such actions would undermine prospects for a two-state solution.
The halt in exports follows the Israeli security cabinet’s approval of a proposal by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to expand military operations in Gaza, including plans to take control of the city while ensuring humanitarian aid reaches civilians outside combat zones. The announcement came as protests continued in Israel, with hundreds gathering outside the prime minister’s residence on Thursday evening demanding an end to the war.
Vice-Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) expressed support for the export suspension. He stated, “The humanitarian suffering in Gaza is unbearable. The Israeli government bears great responsibility for the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Therefore, humanitarian aid must now be allowed into Gaza as quickly and comprehensively as possible.”
Klingbeil also echoed concerns about the future of a two-state solution. “No further facts should be created that would undermine it,” he said. “It is also clear: The release of all hostages and a ceasefire are of the utmost urgency.”
Until now, the German government had resisted calls for an arms embargo against Israel, but figures released by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs reveal that from Oct. 7, 2023, to May 13, 2025, Germany authorized weapons and military equipment exports to Israel worth €485.1 million.
