Berlin, August 8, 2025 — Germany announced on Friday that it will suspend the sale of weapons to Israel that could potentially be used in Gaza, following the approval of a controversial takeover plan.
Government officials said the decision targets specific categories of arms and ammunition deemed likely to be deployed in the densely populated enclave, where humanitarian concerns remain high. The move comes amid increasing international pressure over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and their impact on civilians.
Berlin clarified that existing defence contracts unrelated to Gaza operations will continue, but future export approvals for weapons falling under the new restrictions will be withheld pending further review.
The policy shift underscores Germany’s growing unease with the situation, even as it maintains its broader security commitments to Israel. Officials said the step was taken to align with international humanitarian law and to ensure that German-made arms are not used in ways that could escalate the conflict or worsen civilian suffering.
The announcement has drawn both praise from human rights groups and criticism from pro-Israel voices, who argue it could strain bilateral relations at a sensitive time.