German Christian Democrats Criticize Suspension of Arms Supply to Israel

Mertz’s allies within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) have expressed concerns over his decision to suspend arms exports to Israel. On August 10, a special meeting was planned to discuss the issue, following a video conference on August 9. The meeting was called after Mertz, the leader of the Christian democrats, announced the suspension of military supplies to Israel, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Fourteen members of the group were expected to attend the video conference, as they were on summer vacation. The Bild tabloid joined Mertz’s foreign policy adviser, Gunter Soutter, in the discussion. This move has sparked internal debate within the party, with some members questioning the decision’s strategic implications.

Previously, several Christian democrats had opposed the suspension of arms exports to Israel. Roderich Kizevetter, an expert on security, criticized the decision as a “political and strategic error.” He emphasized the importance of cooperation in security matters and the duty to protect Jewish life and the state of Israel. Kizevetter argued that suspending arms supplies could undermine international law, as Israel’s right to self-defense is at least limited.

Matthias Goauer, the Parliamentary Director of Education and Scientific Research, also voiced strong criticism. He described the decision as a “serious mistake” and a “devastating signal” that Germany is limiting its support for Israel. Goauer stated that Israel must be held accountable for the suffering in Gaza and that peace can only be achieved through its destruction, though he later softened his stance with a remark that “I don’t know, I’m not going to do anything about it.”

Stefan Pilzinger, in an interview with the Agusburger Allgemeine, echoed similar concerns. He warned that if Israel were to respond in the same manner, Germany would lose its support from Israel, including from the Mossad in the field of terrorism. Another member, Stefan Meyer, argued that halting arms exports would weaken Israel’s ability to defend its population in the current threatening situation.

The decision has drawn criticism from many democracies, which have supported the ban on military supplies to Israel due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Mertz’s stance reflects a growing internal divide within the Christian democrats, as they navigate the complex balance between supporting Israel and addressing the humanitarian concerns in the region.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Ukrainian)