German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (Associated Press photo).
Berlin: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says his country will not authorise any exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza “until further notice.” Friday's move from Germany, which has been a stalwart supporter of Israel for decades, comes after the Israeli Cabinet announced plans to take over Gaza City, the Associated Press reported.
In a statement, Merz emphasised that Israel “has the right to defend itself against Hamas' terror” and said that the release of Israeli hostages and “purposeful” negotiations toward a cease-fire in the 22-month conflict are our top priority.” He said Hamas must not have a role in the future of Gaza.
“The even harsher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, approved by the Israeli Cabinet last night, makes it increasingly difficult for the German government to see how these goals will be achieved,” he added. “Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorise any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice.”
The German government remains deeply concerned about the suffering of civilians in Gaza, he said, adding: “With the planned offensive, the Israeli government bears even greater responsibility than before for providing for their needs.”
He called on Israel to allow comprehensive access for aid deliveries — including for UN organisations and other NGOs — and said Israel “must continue to comprehensively and sustainably address the humanitarian situation in Gaza.”
Germany also called on Israel's government “not to take any further steps toward annexing the West Bank.”
Australia’s foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, has joined fresh international condemnation of Israel’s plans to control more of Gaza in a new ground offensive, warning it risks breaching international law and putting the lives of hostages and civilians in renewed danger.
Wong joined the foreign ministers of Germany, Italy, New Zealand and the UK in a joint statement on Saturday, saying the plans by Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, to control Gaza City will make an already perilous situation worse.
They said the “worst-case scenario” of mass famine was already unfolding in Gaza.