Germany Halts Military Exports Amid Escalating Gaza Tensions

The German government has announced a suspension of military exports to the Gaza Strip in response to escalating Israeli operations. Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized prioritizing the release of hostages and negotiations over military solutions. Germany calls for a reevaluation of military plans amid growing international concern.

In a decisive move, the German government has suspended the approval of military exports that could be used in the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Friday. The decision comes amid Israel's expanded military operations in Gaza and growing domestic and international criticism.

Israel's political-security cabinet recently approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, aiming to disarm Hamas and free Israeli hostages. However, Chancellor Merz noted that the intensified military approach complicates achieving these objectives effectively.

Germany's far-right pressures for a complete Gaza takeover have raised concerns about the hostages' safety. Merz stressed Germany's focus on prioritizing negotiations for a ceasefire and securing hostages' release while highlighting the ongoing civilian suffering in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)