BERLIN

Germany on Friday sharply criticized Israel's decision to occupy the Gaza Strip and announced a partial suspension of military exports.

"Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorize any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip," Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in a statement.

The conservative leader said Germany has so far defended Israel's right to defend itself, supported initiatives for the release of hostages, and advocated the disarmament of Hamas, backing Israel throughout the conflict.

"The Israeli Cabinet's decision last night to pursue even harsher military action in the Gaza Strip makes it increasingly difficult, from the German government's perspective, to see how these goals will be achieved," Merz said, adding that his government would no longer authorize any military exports to Israel that could be used in this military campaign.

The chancellor also expressed Berlin’s concerns about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, amid reports of children dying from starvation and widespread famine affecting the Palestinian population due to the Israeli blockade and military operations.

"The German government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip. With the planned offensive, the Israeli government would bear even greater responsibility than before," Merz said, reiterating his call for Israel to allow comprehensive access for aid deliveries, including for UN organizations and NGOs.

He also urged the Israeli government "not to take any further steps toward annexing the West Bank," amid growing international concerns that such actions could further escalate tensions and jeopardize prospects for a two-state solution.

Germany has long been a staunch supporter of Israel, with political leaders often referencing the nation's historical responsibility toward Israel stemming from its Nazi past and the Holocaust of Jews during World War II.

For months, Merz rejected calls from opposition lawmakers to halt arms exports to Israel and dismissed appeals from EU members to suspend a trade agreement with Tel Aviv, even as Israel's military campaign and blockade in Gaza resulted in over 61,000 casualties, with women and children making up nearly half of the victims.

Official figures show Germany has approved weapons exports to Israel worth nearly half a billion euros since the Gaza conflict escalated two years ago. In response to an inquiry, the German Economic Ministry confirmed that between Oct. 7, 2023, and May 13, 2025, they authorized the delivery of weapons and military equipment to Israel valued at €485 million ($565 million).

According to government sources, these exports primarily consisted of weapons and equipment intended for Israel's defense against Iran and Hezbollah.