Germany halts arms exports to Israel

Berlin freezes arms exports that could be used in Gaza as reports surface of a plan to fully occupy the territory.

Germany halts military exports to Israel amid Gaza plan

Germany has paused exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip, effective immediately and until further notice. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the move reflects concern for Gaza’s civilians as Israel contemplates a major operation in the enclave. Berlin’s stance comes after Israeli media reported that the security cabinet approved a plan to occupy Gaza.

Germany is Israel’s second largest supplier of arms after the United States. The decision follows those reports and adds to a broader debate in Europe about how to respond to the Gaza crisis while counting the costs for security and diplomacy. UN experts welcomed the move as overdue and urged Berlin to use its influence to push for a ceasefire and withdrawal. SIPRI data show 2023 arms exports to Israel were substantial, highlighting Germany’s role in the region’s arms market.

The step signals a readiness to link arms policy to humanitarian and legal concerns, staking out a middle ground between alliance loyalty and domestic pressure for restraint. It also tests Germany’s ability to influence security choices in an era of intense regional volatility. Berlin must navigate a delicate balance: preserving its security relationship with Israel and its role in EU diplomacy while facing criticism from rights advocates and questions about the legality of ongoing arms transfers. The ICJ advisory opinion from 2024 adds legal gravity to calls for restraint and for third states to refrain from supporting occupation.

Highlights

The choices Berlin makes will test the limits of alliance, law, and moral responsibility.