Germany will suspend the export of military equipment to Israel that could be used in Gaza, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday. The decision comes in response to Israel’s move to escalate its operations in the region, despite growing international condemnation.
“Under these circumstances, the German government will, until further notice, not approve any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip,” Merz said.
The decision does not amount to a complete arms embargo and still permits the export of military systems not connected to operations in Gaza, including missile defense and naval equipment.
The statement comes amid growing domestic pressure in Germany to reassess arms transfers, following reports of rising civilian casualties and restricted humanitarian aid access in Gaza. Merz also cautioned Israel against taking steps toward annexing the West Bank, signaling Berlin is paying attention to issues.
Germany remains one of Israel’s key defense allies in Europe. The suspension applies only to new arms export approvals. Existing agreements can still proceed, though shipments involving weapons that might be used in Gaza may face delays.
Between October 2023 and May 2025, Germany authorized arms exports to Israel totaling €485 million ($565 million), making it one of Israel’s main military suppliers, according to data from the German parliament. The shipments comprised firearms, ammunition, weapon components, electronic systems, and armored vehicles.
Last week, Slovenia became the first EU member state to impose a full ban on the import, export, and transit of weapons to and from Israel, citing the country’s actions in Gaza.
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