Germany Pressure on Israel: Berlin stops certain arms exports
Following the Israeli security cabinet's decision to seize the city of Gaza, the German government is increasing the pressure on Israel.
08.08.2025, 13:10
SDA
Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced that no exports of armaments that could be used in the Gaza war would be approved for the time being. In recent weeks, his government has increasingly criticized Israel's military actions in the Gaza Strip. Now, for the first time, it is taking concrete measures against its friend and partner.
Chancellor criticizes plans for even tougher action in Gaza
Merz emphasized that Israel had the right to defend itself against Hamas terror. The release of the hostages and determined negotiations on a ceasefire had top priority for Germany. Hamas must be disarmed and must not be allowed to play a role in the future of Gaza.
"In the view of the German government, the even tougher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip decided last night by the Israeli cabinet makes it increasingly difficult to see how these goals are to be achieved," the Chancellor's written statement said. "Under these circumstances, the Federal Government will not approve any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice."
Merz reminds Israel of its responsibility for the civilian population
The Christian Democrat emphasized that the German government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip. "With the planned offensive, the Israeli government bears even greater responsibility than before for their care. It must allow comprehensive access for aid supplies, including for UN organizations and other non-governmental institutions."
Berlin had previously rejected a ban on arms exports to Israel. Since the Hamas terror attack almost two years ago, Germany has approved arms exports worth almost half a billion euros. From October 7, 2023 to May 13, 2025, the delivery of weapons and military equipment worth 485.1 million euros (456 million Swiss francs) to Israel was permitted, as the Federal Ministry of Economics recently answered a question from the Left Party.
Klingbeil supports decision
Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil supports the decision to restrict military aid. "We stand in full solidarity with the state of Israel, but wrongdoing must be called out," explained the Social Democrat.
