Germany Suspends Military Exports to Israel Over Gaza Plans

Melbourne, August 9 — In protest against Israel’s new plans to seize Gaza City, Germany has suspended the export of certain military equipment to Israel that could potentially be used in Gaza. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the decision in a statement on Thursday, according to a report by British news outlet BBC.

Chancellor Merz stated:

“Given the current situation, it is becoming increasingly difficult to understand how Israel’s military plans contribute to achieving their legitimate objectives. Therefore, until further notice, the German government will not approve the export of any military equipment that could be used in Gaza.”

This move is being viewed as a major blow to Israel-Germany relations. Historically, Germany has been one of Israel’s closest diplomatic and military allies, largely due to its historical responsibility stemming from the Holocaust during World War II. For decades, Germany has considered Israel’s security a matter of “state responsibility.”

Earlier this year, ahead of the NATO summit in June, Chancellor Merz had stated:

“One of the core principles of our national policy is the protection of Israel’s existence.”
The export suspension, coming just weeks after that statement, marks a dramatic shift in Germany’s position regarding Israel.

According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), between 2020 and 2024, 66% of Israel’s arms imports came from the United States, while 33% came from Germany. These included naval assets such as frigates and torpedoes, armored vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and ammunition.

Experts say that as global concern over the situation in Gaza continues to grow, Germany’s decision — as one of Israel’s primary arms suppliers — could place significant pressure on the Israeli government in the near future.