Germany will stop exporting military equipment to Israel that could be used in the Gaza Strip, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in response to Israel's plan to take control of the city of Gaza.

The decision marks a significant change in the course of the German government, which is one of Israel's most loyal international allies.

Merz said it was "increasingly difficult to understand" how Israel's military plan would help achieve the legitimate goals of disarming Hamas and freeing hostages, BGNES reported.

"Under these circumstances, the German government will not authorize the export of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice," he continued.

Merz added that "with the planned offensive, the Israeli government bears even greater responsibility" for providing assistance to civilians in Gaza and repeated his call for full access for "UN organizations and other non-governmental institutions."

International concern is growing over the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, where the UN says famine is looming.

The German chancellor also said that his government "calls on the Israeli government not to take further steps toward annexing the West Bank." | BGNES