Germany will halt arms deliveries to Israel that could be used in the war in Gaza, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Friday, marking a rare curb on Berlin’s traditionally unwavering support for its ally. The decision follows mounting public anger over Gaza’s deepening humanitarian catastrophe, where most of the 2.2 million residents are homeless and facing starvation.
Merz, a conservative leader long known for his staunch pro-Israel stance, said Israel’s military actions were unlikely to achieve their stated goals of destroying Hamas or freeing hostages. His announcement signals a significant shift for a government whose policy toward Israel has been rooted in guilt over the Nazi Holocaust, a principle enshrined as Germany’s “Staatsraison.”
“This is not a U-turn, but a warning shot,” said Muriel Asseburg of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, noting that it is Berlin’s first concrete measure against Israel since the war began. The suspension applies only to exports that could be deployed in Gaza, and Germany will continue other forms of cooperation.
The move reflects shifting public opinion: a new ARD-DeutschlandTREND survey found 66% of Germans want their government to increase pressure on Israel, up from 57% in April. Only 31% now believe Germany’s history gives it a special responsibility toward Israel, while 62% disagree.
Tensions over policy toward Israel are also growing within Germany’s coalition. The Social Democrats, Merz’s junior partner, have called for stronger measures, including possible EU agreement suspensions, sanctions on Israeli ministers, and the evacuation of injured Palestinian children.
The decision comes amid a divisive media debate. Der Spiegel has accused Israel of violating humanitarian law, while mass-market daily Bild warns against rising anti-Israel sentiment and criticises cutting support during wartime.
Israel denies targeting civilians or using starvation as a weapon, blaming Hamas for prolonging the conflict that began with the group’s October 7, 2023 attack, which killed around 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage. Gaza health authorities say more than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s air and ground campaign.
Germany is Israel’s second-largest arms supplier after the U.S., and also a buyer of Israeli defence technology, including the Arrow-3 missile system. Analysts warn the suspension could strain both political and defence ties, with some cautioning that retaliation from Israel could impact Germany’s military readiness.
Written By Rodney Mbua
