In light of the events in the Gaza Strip, the German government has imposed a partial ban on arms exports to Israel. Germany “will not approve any export of weaponry” that could be used in the Gaza Strip “until further notice,” Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) said on Friday. He referred to the “even harsher military action by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip decided by the Israeli cabinet.” “Deeply concerned”
The German government remains deeply concerned “about the ongoing suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip,” Merz said. With the planned offensive, the Israeli government bears an even greater responsibility than before for the supply of goods. It must ensure comprehensive access for aid deliveries, including for United Nations organizations and other non-governmental institutions.
In addition, the German government urgently calls on the Israeli government “not to take any further steps toward the annexation of the West Bank.” Israel’s security cabinet approves plan to ‘defeat’ Hamas Meanwhile, Israel intends to expand its military operation in the Gaza Strip. After hours of deliberations, the Israeli security cabinet approved the plan presented by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to capture Gaza City.
The largest city in the Gaza Strip has been targeted by Israeli strikes several times since the beginning of the war about 22 months ago. The plan also speaks of the “defeat” of Hamas. According to media reports, Israel currently controls around three-quarters of the largely destroyed coastal strip, home to a total of about two million Palestinians.
Since the beginning of the week, there has been speculation about a full takeover of the Gaza Strip by Israel. A senior official stated that the operation now decided on will focus exclusively on Gaza City, in the north of the coastal area. The goal is to evacuate residents to refugee camps in the central section of the Gaza Strip, with this process expected to take place in early October.
