• Germany suspends all military exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza.
• This decision follows Israel's plan to expand military operations in Gaza.
• Chancellor Merz emphasizes the humanitarian crisis and calls for increased aid access.
• Netanyahu expresses disappointment over Germany's sudden policy shift.
• Germany's arms exports to Israel were valued at 485 million euros until May 2025.

Germany has announced a halt to military exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza, as Chancellor Friedrich Merz cited the escalating situation following Israel's decision to take control over Gaza City. This marks a significant shift for Germany, a country that has long viewed itself as one of Israel's strongest allies. Merz stated, “Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorize any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice,” highlighting the deteriorating conditions in Gaza, which have prompted international concern, according to Al Jazeera and HuffPost.

Chancellor Merz's statement, which followed the Israeli security cabinet's approval of intensified military actions, expressed concerns over the suffering of civilians, stating that it was “increasingly difficult to see how these goals can be achieved” through such offensive measures. This perspective aligns with rising global calls for humanitarian aid access and a re-evaluation of military support, as ongoing reports indicate a humanitarian catastrophe in the region, according to South China Morning Post, India Times, and Newsweek.

Despite Germany's historical support for Israel, this decision has drawn sharp criticism from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who expressed disappointment in a subsequent conversation with Merz. Netanyahu's office contended that Germany's move effectively rewards Hamas terrorism, thereby undermining Israel's security efforts. This sentiment reflects a deeper unease among Israeli leadership regarding changing attitudes among Germany and its European partners, as articulated by various officials and public figures in Israel, as detailed by Jakarta Post and Anadolu Agency.

Moreover, this suspension is crucial considering Germany's role as a key supplier of arms to Israel, having previously approved exports worth 485 million euros ($565 million) leading up to this decision. The chancellor reaffirmed his stance on Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas but emphasized that the humanitarian crisis demands urgent attention and action from Israel in facilitating aid access to affected civilians in Gaza. Merz further urged against any steps toward annexation of the West Bank, reiterating the need for a two-state solution and supporting increased humanitarian efforts, according to TRT World and NPR.