Germany has announced a suspension of military exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza, marking a significant shift in its long-standing support for Israel amid the ongoing Gaza crisis. Chancellor Friedrich Merz revealed the decision on August 8, 2025, following Israel’s security cabinet approval of a plan to take over Gaza City, escalating the nearly two-year conflict. While affirming Israel’s right to defend itself and the importance of releasing hostages held by Hamas, Merz expressed concern that intensified Israeli military actions complicate achieving these goals and worsen civilian suffering. Germany, Israel’s second-largest arms supplier, is pausing exports “until further notice” and urged Israel to allow humanitarian aid access and desist from annexation plans in the West Bank. The move aligns with growing international and European unease over Israel’s Gaza operations and humanitarian conditions