L’Germany suspended “until further notice” any export of military equipment likely to be used in the Gaza Strip. This measure marks a significant turning point in Berlin’s policy towards Israeland follows the announcement by the Israeli government of its intention to fully occupy the Gaza Strip.
In a press release, Chancellor Friedrich Merz explained that he becomes ” Increasingly difficult for the German government to see how the objectives of release of hostages and ceasefire can be achieved In the current context. Germany, historically one of the most faithful allies in Israel and its second largest weapon supplierthus expresses serious reserves on Israeli military strategy.
Historical support questioned
This suspension comes under a increasing pressure, both international and national. Germany has long justified its military support in Israel by invoking a “Reason of state” linked to its historical pastespecially the holocaust. However, the severity of the humanitarian disaster in Gaza caused a deep reassessment of this posturewith several votes, including within the German government coalition, asking for a Research of arms export policy.
Germany is a key supplier for Israel, especially with the sale of anti -missile defense systems (such as the Iron Dome system)armored vehicles, as well as light weapons and spare parts.
In his declaration, Berlin expressed his “Deep concern” in the face of the suffering of the civilian population in Gazainsisting on the increased responsibility of the Hebrew State in humanitarian supply.
This decision follows years of debate and dispute, in particular from human rights NGOs, and translates a German awareness of the limits of his unconditional support Faced with a humanitarian crisis deemed untenable.
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