Germany has announced a suspension of weapons exports to Israel, citing concerns over the Israeli government's expanded military operations in Gaza City. Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that no permissions will be granted for the export of arms or military goods that could be used in the Gaza Strip, marking a significant shift in Germany's longstanding support for Israel. This decision follows mounting international pressure and growing criticism of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed and many children are suffering from hunger and malnutrition.

Germany has been Israel's second-largest arms supplier, accounting for nearly a third of its imports in recent years. The halt comes after warnings from German officials about the consequences of Israel's response to attacks by Hamas, and amid calls from human rights groups to address the suffering in Gaza. While the suspension does not amount to a total embargo, it signals a change in Berlin's approach and leaves open the possibility of exporting equipment not intended for use in Gaza.