Chancellor Friedrich Merz's decision to suspend German weapons exports to Israel for use in the Gaza Strip has triggered significant backlash from conservative members within the CDU and CSU. Critics within these parties argue that this shift undermines decades of German foreign policy towards Israel and express the need for meaningful explanations. In contrast, some members view the halt as a necessary measure in light of recent Israeli government actions. The CDU/CSU coalition remains divided as discussions continue regarding the implications and motivations behind this decision.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz's decision to halt German weapons exports to Israel for use in the Gaza Strip "until further notice" has met with fierce opposition from members of his own conservative Christian Democratic Party (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU). Some CDU critics emphasized this decision departs from decades of foreign policy continuity toward Israel, suggesting it requires further explanation and internal discussions within the coalition. Others have welcomed the decision, linking it to recent actions taken by the Israeli government.
CSU parliamentary group leader Alexander Hoffmann conveyed that his party was not involved in the decision and considers it questionable, emphasizing the need for accountability within coalition discussions. CDU security policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter criticized the halt as a serious political and strategic mistake by Germany, reflecting concerns over the implications of this shift against Israel's security.
CDU foreign policy expert Norbert Rottgen defended the decision as a necessary reaction to the recent decisions of the Israeli government. Rottgen's perspective reflects a divide within the CDU/CSU alliance, where some view the halt as aligned with a moral imperative to address wrongdoings despite historical ties with Israel.
Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil from the Social Democratic Party (SPD) expressed that while there is full solidarity with Israel, it is crucial to acknowledge and call out wrongdoings. This statement encapsulates the tensions within the coalition regarding the balance between supporting Israel and addressing concerns over its recent actions.
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