Germany Shifts Stance on Israel, Halting Military Export to Gaza

Strategic Insights -

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a significant shift in Berlin's support for Israel, halting the export of military equipment that could be used in Gaza. This move comes as international partners condemn Israeli plans to take control of Gaza City, which have triggered a humanitarian disaster and widespread criticism.

The decision follows weeks of criticism from Merz towards Israel's "unclear" policy goals in Gaza and the unfolding humanitarian disaster there. However, Merz stopped short of imposing concrete consequences in policy until now. In a sharply worded statement, Merz emphasized the importance of Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas and its highest priority of securing the release of Israeli hostages through "resolute negotiations on a ceasefire". However, he also expressed his administration's deep worry about the continued suffering of the civilian population in Gaza, stating that the planned Israeli offensive "bears even stronger responsibility than to date for their provisions".

This shift in stance marks a significant departure from Germany's long-standing security relationship with Israel, which has maintained an unwavering support for its defense needs. Germany has declined to back recent calls within the European Union to impose sanctions on Israel for mass civilian deaths in Gaza.

Key Takeaways:

  • Germany has indefinitely halted exports of military equipment to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip.
  • The move is a significant shift in Berlin's stance on Israel, which has maintained a robust security relationship with Germany for decades.
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas and the importance of securing the release of Israeli hostages through "resolute negotiations on a ceasefire".
  • The decision follows weeks of criticism from Merz towards Israel's "unclear" policy goals in Gaza and the unfolding humanitarian disaster there.
  • Public opinion in Germany has grown increasingly critical of Israel, with a majority of respondents believing Berlin should apply more pressure on the Israeli government regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
  • A poll conducted by the Forsa opinion research institute found that 77% of respondents from the governing parties (CDU/CSU and SPD) shared the view that Germany should apply more pressure on Israel.
  • German Foreign Minister, Friedrich Merz, called on Israel to allow full-scale access for aid deliveries, including UN organizations and other non-governmental institutions, to sustainably improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Statistics:

  • Germany's parliament granted export licenses for €485 million worth of military equipment to Israel between 7 October 2023 and 13 May 2025.
  • Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed in the nearly two-year offensive in Gaza, leading to a severe famine in the territory.
  • The Israeli security cabinet has approved a plan to take over Gaza City, marking another escalation in the conflict.
  • The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, called on Israel to reconsider its plans, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
  • The UN high commissioner for human rights, Volker Türk, stated that Israel's plan "must be immediately halted".

Sources:

  • Reuters
  • The Guardian
  • European Commission press release
  • Forsa opinion research institute
  • Der Spiegel