Merz stops arms deliveries to Israel: Political earthquake in Berlin!

Merz stops arms deliveries to Israel: Political earthquake in Berlin!

Chancellor Friedrich Merz took a controversial step in German foreign policy today. After 98 days in office, he decided on a partial arms export ban against Israel, which will apply until further notice. Merz justifies this decision with several important arguments. He balanced the discontent of some of his party colleagues in the Union against the support of the Israeli government and at the same time kept the majority of the population in mind. This was reported by the Northern Courier.

Another point of view is that Merz is not alone in this context: other European countries such as Great Britain and France have also criticized Israel's conduct of the war. In his argument, however, Merz makes it clear that the decision is directed against the Israeli government, not against the country as such. He emphasizes that Israel's security remains part of Germany's raison d'état.

Reactions to the decision

The news of the arms export ban caused a stir in the political landscape. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized the decision and accused Germany of rewarding Hamas. “We cannot question Israel’s security!” said an Israeli ministry spokesman.

But there are mixed reactions not only abroad, but also in Germany itself. Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil (SPD) supports Merz's move and describes the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip as unbearable. He calls for rapid relief measures for the population affected by the conflict. Meanwhile, an open letter supported by almost 400 prominent personalities praises the gun ban.

Among the critics is Josef Schuster, the president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, who sees the decision as dangerous for Israel's existence. Members of the Junge Union and CDU foreign policy experts also express sharp criticism and see the decision as a strategic mistake. For the Union, especially the CSU, this change of course comes as more than a surprise. Reports suggest they were not included in the decision-making process.

Friedrich Merz's course

Despite the heavy criticism, Merz remains steadfast. He explains that Germany cannot intervene in a conflict that is to be resolved exclusively militarily. He also reiterates that the fundamental principles of Germany's Israel policy will not be called into question. Merz even rules out restricting trade relations with Israel or suspending the EU Association Agreement, reports Time.

At the same time, Merz shows an open atmosphere for discussion with Netanyahu and points out that he did not make the decision alone, but bears responsibility for it. With a clear commitment to Israel and the need for humanitarian solutions, he faces the challenge of finding a balance between international pressure and responsibility for the people of the Gaza Strip.

Overall, it is clear that Merz's politics are navigating an extremely tense and complex situation. The pressure on the federal government remains high, while the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is described as catastrophic. His decisions could be just the beginning of a longer, difficult road.