In a significant policy turnaround, Germany has announced a suspension of all military exports to Israel that could potentially be used in the Gaza conflict. This decision came in early August 2025 shortly after Israel’s security cabinet approved a strategy to take control of Gaza City, marking an escalation in the nearly two-year-long conflict. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made the announcement publicly, clarifying that while Germany supports Israel’s right to defend itself, the increasing civilian casualties in Gaza compelled Berlin to pause arms shipments. This marked a notable shift for Germany, historically one of Israel’s closest military allies in Europe.
Chancellor Merz stated,
"The intensified military operations by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, which were authorized by the Israeli cabinet last night, make it increasingly challenging for the German government to understand how these objectives can be realized."
He added emphatically,
"The German government will not permit any military equipment exports that could be utilized in the Gaza Strip until further notice."
The statement underscored the humanitarian concerns driving Berlin’s decision amid mounting international criticism over Israel’s military campaign and the escalating civilian toll.
Historical Context of German-Israeli Military Relations
Germany has historically been a staunch supporter of Israel, stemming partly from the country’s post-Holocaust commitments. Over the past decade, Germany consistently ranked among the top suppliers of military equipment to Israel, second only to the United States. From 2020 to 2024, German arms accounted for roughly one-third of Israel’s weapon imports. The relationship has generally been characterized by tight-knit political and military cooperation underscored by a mutual strategic interest and Germany’s sense of responsibility toward Israel’s security.
However, the sustained Gaza conflict and the recent decision by Israel to intensify its offensive in Gaza City caused public unease across Germany. A June 2025 poll indicated that 73% of Germans support stricter regulation of arms exports to conflict zones, while 30% favored a complete ban on supplies to Israel amid reports of civilian casualties and humanitarian crises in the territory.
International and Domestic Pressures Leading to the Export Ban
The announcement followed rising domestic political pressure within Germany, where coalition partners and civil society groups called on Chancellor Merz to take a firmer stance on Israel’s Gaza operations. Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil of the Social Democratic Party remarked,
"This is the correct choice. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is intolerable."
The coalition government faced growing demands to align German arms export policies with international humanitarian norms.
Internationally, Germany’s move resonated amidst mounting global criticism of Israel’s war tactics in Gaza and calls for a ceasefire by United Nations bodies and humanitarian organizations. With tens of thousands of Gazan civilians killed and essential supplies like food, water, and medicine restricted, the humanitarian toll pushed Germany to adjust its arms transfer stance in response to the unfolding crisis.
Germany’s Position: Support for Israel’s Right to Defense, Condemnation of Civilian Impact
Despite halting military exports specifically for use in Gaza, Chancellor Merz reiterated Germany’s ongoing support for Israel as a sovereign nation confronting terrorist threats. He affirmed,
"Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas’ terror."
The Chancellor also stressed the urgent need for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and called for purposeful negotiations to bring about a ceasefire, stating that such diplomacy remained Berlin’s top priority.
Merz was clear in his condemnation of Hamas, expressing that the militant group should have no role in Gaza’s governance in any future peace arrangement. However, he pointed out that Israel, given its decision to expand military operations into Gaza City, bore an increasing responsibility to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access, further complicating Germany’s willingness to approve arms needed for such operations.
Reaction from Israel and Diplomatic Fallout
The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reacted sharply against Germany’s decision. A statement from Israel’s Prime Minister’s office conveyed deep dissatisfaction with Berlin’s halt on arms exports, accusing Germany of undermining Israel’s efforts to combat Hamas effectively.
The Israeli statement said Germany’s move would be viewed as "rewarding Hamas" and characterized it as insufficient support for what Israel terms a just war on terror. This response highlights the diplomatic strain the arms export suspension has caused between two traditionally close allies.
Impact on Military and Economic Cooperation
The halt has had immediate practical effects. Reports from September 2025 indicate that no new licenses for military exports to Israel were issued for over a month following the August embargo announcement. Germany’s Federal Economy Ministry confirmed that arms export requests were being evaluated on a case-by-case basis with a clear presumption against approvals for equipment potentially usable in Gaza.
This suspension marks a watershed moment since it is the first time a unified Germany has officially recognized a denial of military support to Israel amid ongoing hostilities. The ban impacts various categories of military hardware including weapons, ammunition, and electronic equipment essential for Israel’s military operations. Opposition parties in Germany argue that the government should take even stronger measures, advocating a complete ban on military exports to Israel.
Broader European and Global Context
Germany’s decision comes amid a broader shift in Western attitudes towards the Gaza conflict. Several European and Arab nations have criticized Israel’s military approach, especially following the declaration of intent to take full control of Gaza City. Rising calls for ceasefire and humanitarian access have put pressure on several Western governments to reconsider armed support conducive to the continuation of the war.
Germany’s move may also prompt reassessment of arms sales policies among other NATO and EU members. It underscores the delicate balance between ensuring Israel’s security and addressing the humanitarian consequences of armed conflict in densely populated civilian areas.
Humanitarian Concerns and Calls for Aid Access
Chancellor Merz called on Israel to allow comprehensive and sustained access for humanitarian aid organizations, including United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations. He emphasized the need for Israel to address the dire needs of Gaza’s civilian population and avoid further exacerbating the crisis.
Merz acknowledged the complexity and gravity of the situation, stating,
"The humanitarian situation in Gaza is grave and urgent measures must be taken to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the conflict."
His appeal reflects growing concern in Germany about the balance between military action and humanitarian protection in the ongoing war.
Germany’s decision to halt military exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza marks a historic and contentious shift in its foreign policy towards one of its closest allies. Though affirming Israel’s right to self-defense, Berlin responded to the intensifying humanitarian crisis by suspending weapons supplies tied to operations in Gaza. The move has strained diplomatic ties and stirred debates about Germany’s role in the Middle East conflict and arms export ethics.
As the Gaza war continues, Germany’s stance highlights the increasing challenges faced by Western governments in navigating security alliances while addressing international humanitarian obligations. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for NATO cooperation and European policy on arms exports in conflict zones.