Germany has announced it will suspend weapons exports to Israel “until further notice,” responding to the Netanyahu government’s decision to militarily occupy Gaza City. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the halt applies to all arms and military goods “that may be utilized in the Gaza Strip.” . The move marks a major policy shift for Berlin, which for decades maintained steadfast support for Israel, rooted in historical responsibility for the Holocaust. Between 2019 and 2023, Germany supplied around 30% of Israel’s arms imports—second only to the U.S.—with exports surging after the October 2023 Hamas attacks. Since the war began, Berlin has approved €485 million ($565M) in arms deliveries. . Merz reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defense but criticized the expanded ground operation, a move even opposed by some Israeli military leaders. His government had previously warned of “consequences” if Israel’s response was disproportionate. . While figures vary widely, the Gaza Health Ministry rep...