UPDATES WITH ADDITIONAL REMARKS FROM MERZ
By Anadolu staff
BERLIN (AA) - Germany on Friday sharply criticized Israel's plans to occupy the Gaza Strip and announced a partial suspension of military exports.
"Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorize any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip," Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in a statement.
The conservative leader noted that Germany has so far defended Israel's right to defend itself, supported initiatives for the release of hostages, and advocated for the disarmament of Hamas, backing Israel throughout the conflict.
"The Israeli Cabinet's decision last night to pursue even harsher military action in the Gaza Strip makes it increasingly difficult, from the German government's perspective, to see how these goals will be achieved," Merz stressed, adding that his government would no longer authorize any military exports to Israel that could be used in this military campaign.
The chancellor also expressed Berlin’s concerns about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, amid reports of children dying from starvation and widespread famine affecting the Palestinian population due to the Israeli blockade and military operations.
"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 would bear even greater responsibility than before," Merz said, and reiterated his call for Israel to allow comprehensive access for aid deliveries, including for UN organizations and non-governmental institutions.
He also urged the Israeli government "not to take any further steps toward annexing the West Bank," amid growing international concerns that such actions could further escalate tensions and jeopardize prospects for a two-state solution.