Statement by Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the development in Gaza
Germany Federal Foreign Office
Press release 178_en
Friday, 8 August 2025
Press and Information Office of the Federal Government (BPA)
Israel has the right to defend itself against Hamas' terror. The release of the hostages and ambitious negotiations on a ceasefire are our top priorities. The disarmament of Hamas is imperative. Hamas must not be allowed to play a role in Gaza's future.
In the German Government's view, the new military push by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip agreed by the Israeli security cabinet last night makes it increasingly unclear how these goals are to be achieved. Under these circumstances, the German Government will, until further notice, authorise no military equipment exports that can be used in the Gaza Strip.
The German Government remains profoundly concerned about the continued suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip. With the planned offensive, the Israeli Government bears even more responsibility than hitherto for ensuring that civilians can be provided with the supplies they need. It must enable comprehensive access for relief supplies, including for UN organisations and other non-state institutions. Following the correct steps taken in recent days, Israel must continue to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza in a comprehensive and sustainable way.
In addition, the German Government urgently calls on the Israeli Government to refrain from taking any further steps towards an annexation of the West Bank.
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