Germany has announced a complete halt to arms exports to Israel, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy following the imposition of a new embargo. Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who took office earlier this year, stated that the decision was made in response to the ongoing conflict in the region and the need to align Germany’s foreign policy with its commitment to peace and human rights. The move comes after a period of partial restrictions, during which no licenses were issued for more than a month.
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. While the government asserts that the embargo is a necessary step towards de-escalation, the opposition Left Party has criticized the measure, arguing that it does not go far enough and that more stringent actions are required. The party’s spokesperson emphasized the importance of holding Israel accountable for its actions and called for a more comprehensive approach to the issue. The situation remains a focal point in the political discourse, with further developments expected to influence both domestic and international relations.