German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday announced the suspension of exports of military equipment to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip.
The German Government made the announcement following the Israeli government’s decision to expand operations in the coastal territory.
Merz said in a statement that “the German Government remains deeply concerned about the ongoing suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip.
“With the planned offensive, the Israeli Government bears even greater responsibility than before.”
The chancellor said that the overnight move taken by Israel’s Security Cabinet made it increasingly difficult to achieve Israel’s goals, such as the release of hostages, a ceasefire and the disarmament of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Germany has been one of Israel’s strongest supporters since the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.
Berlin had repeatedly blocked EU initiatives to sanction Israel over the desperate humanitarian situation in Gaza.