Overview

• The pause halts approval for armaments deployable in Gaza but exempts systems deemed essential for Israel’s self-defence
• Chancellor Merz defended the move on ARD, saying he consulted cabinet advisers yet ultimately bears sole responsibility for the decision
• CSU leaders and rank-and-file CDU members say they were not informed beforehand and view the step as a breach of Germany’s longstanding pro-Israel policy
• SPD leader Bärbel Bas backed the humanitarian rationale and urged clearer communication and coordination within the coalition
• Israel first criticized the halt as rewarding Hamas but later softened its stance, with Prime Minister Netanyahu calling Merz a “good friend of Israel”