BERLIN: Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany announced that exports of weapons to Israel, which could potentially be used in the Gaza Strip, have been suspended. Under this decision, the German government will refrain from sending any military equipment that may be used in military operations against civilians in Gaza. This action comes amid growing international pressure on weapon-exporting countries to cease military support for Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Meanwhile, the United Nations Human Rights Council criticized Israel’s new plan for complete military control over Gaza, stating that this action not only questions the end of the occupation of Gaza but also contradicts the two-state solution and the rulings of the International Court of Justice regarding the right to self-determination for the Palestinian people. The council emphasized that this plan should be revoked as soon as possible. Additionally, the Human Rights Council urged Israel to focus on protecting civilian lives, establishing a ceasefire, and releasing prisoners instead of escalating the war further.
