Reaction Germany to halt arms sales to Israel

The German chancellor has indicated a significant shift in Berlin's staunch support for Israel by stopping the export of military equipment that could be used in Gaza, as international partners condemned Israeli plans to take control of Gaza City.

- Deborah Cole Berlin Lisa O'Carroll

Friedrich Merz issued a sharply worded statement signaling the reversal after several weeks of openly criticizing Israel's "unclear" policy goals in Gaza and the unfolding humanitarian disaster there but stopping short of concrete consequences.

The German leader said yesterday that Israel had the right to defend itself against Hamas and press for the release of Israeli hostages, which he stressed was Berlin's "highest priority" along with "resolute negotiations on a ceasefire".

But Merz added his government "believes that the even tougher military action in Gaza Strip decided on by the Israeli cabinet last night makes it increasingly difficult to see how these goals can be achieved.

"Under these circumstances the German government will until further notice not approve any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip."

Merz said his administration was "deeply worried about the continued suffering of the civilian population" in Gaza, adding: "With the planned offensive, the Israeli government bears even stronger responsibility than to date for their provisions."