Germany halts arms deliveries to Israel
Photo: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (Getty Images)
The German government is suspending arms exports to Israel. The decision was made in response to Israel's announced plan to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip, The Times of Israel reports.
"The German government will not approve any exports to Israel of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice," Merz says in response to Israel's plans to expand its military operations in the region.
The Chancellor stresses that Germany's main priorities remain the release of Israeli hostages and negotiations on a ceasefire.
In his statement, he also expresses deep concern about the suffering of civilians in the Gaza Strip.
What Israel's plan entails
Israel plans to expand its military operation to the entire Gaza Strip.
The new operation to occupy additional areas in the central Gaza Strip, including Gaza City, is expected to last at least several months and will result in the displacement of about 1 million Palestinian civilians.
The IDF will also enter areas where, according to Israel, hostages are being held. However, in this case, there is a risk to their lives.
According to Axios, due to fears of accidentally killing hostages, the Israeli Defense Forces are in no hurry to attack the areas of Gaza targeted by the new plan.
At the same time, US President Donald Trump does not object to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to occupy the entire Gaza Strip.
