Google Alert – BD Army
Germany will halt all exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza “until further notice,” Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Friday, in a swift response to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet decision to take control of Gaza City.
The move marks a rare departure for one of Israel’s staunchest allies, coming amid mounting global criticism of Israel’s plan from the UN, aid groups, human rights organizations, and families of hostages still held in Gaza.
Merz reaffirmed Germany’s support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas but stressed that freeing hostages and advancing purposeful ceasefire talks in the 22-month conflict remain top priorities. He said Hamas must have no role in Gaza’s future and warned that Israel’s intensified military action makes these goals harder to achieve.
UK, France, Germany urge Israel to open Gaza to aid after Macron backs Palestinian statehood
Merz urged Israel to ensure full access for humanitarian aid deliveries and to address Gaza’s worsening humanitarian crisis. Germany’s position carries particular weight, given its decades-long pro-Israel stance rooted in historical responsibility for the Holocaust.
The chancellor also called on Israel not to take further steps toward annexing the West Bank.
The decision came as other European nations voiced concern. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp called Israel’s move “a wrong decision” that would not help free hostages, while Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen warned it would only increase civilian suffering. Slovenia last week became the first EU country to ban all arms trade with Israel over its Gaza actions.
Israel’s air and ground campaign, launched after the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack that killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 abducted, has killed tens of thousands in Gaza, displaced most of its population, devastated large areas, and pushed the territory to the brink of famine.
Fifty hostages remain in Gaza, around 20 of whom are believed to be alive. The timing of Israel’s planned offensive is unclear, but it is expected to involve mass troop mobilization and further civilian displacement, deepening the humanitarian crisis.