Germany’s Betrayal of Israel: Merz’s Arms Embargo Sparks Antisemitism Fears

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has ignited a firestorm of criticism, primarily from his own Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), after announcing a partial arms embargo on Israel on August 8, 2025, due to the ongoing Gaza conflict. The decision, which halts exports of weapons that could be used in Gaza, has stunned both Israeli officials and Merz’s inner circle, marking a significant shift from Germany’s longstanding policy of robust support for Israel, rooted in its historical responsibility for the Holocaust.

Alexander Hoffmann, CSU faction leader in Bavaria, called the move “contentious and unilateral,” stating, “Our party wasn’t involved, and it demands at least some explanation.” Former Interior Minister and CSU honorary chairman Horst Seehofer denounced it as a “misguided foreign policy mistake with far-reaching consequences.” CSU parliamentarian Stefan Pilsinger emphasized Germany’s gains from security cooperation with Israel, particularly in air defense and intelligence, which could now be jeopardized.

Within Merz’s CDU, MP Karsten Müller criticized the embargo on X, saying, “This decision disregards the military and security cooperation that strengthens Germany’s army and NATO.” Berlin’s outgoing culture senator, Joe Chialo, also a CDU member, wrote in Bild, “If Berlin or Munich were attacked, we’d beg for the Iron Dome. This embargo betrays our core values.” Volker Beck, chair of the Bundestag’s Germany-Israel relations committee, warned of “German arrogance,” noting that a $260 million deal with Israel’s Elbit Systems for anti-missile defenses could be at risk, adding, “If Israel limits arms to Germany, our air defense future looks grim.”

Social media erupted with condemnation, with users calling the embargo a “blow to a democratic ally” and questioning how Merz would react if Israel restricted Germany’s use of weapons against Russia. The decision follows Israel’s approval of a Gaza City offensive, prompting Merz to express concern over civilian casualties while affirming Israel’s right to self-defense. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the embargo a reward for “Hamas terrorism.” The move aligns with growing European criticism of Israel’s Gaza operations, with countries like France and the UK recognizing Palestinian statehood, potentially isolating Israel further. Critics argue this fuels antisemitism, as seen in rising incidents across Europe, including vandalism and protests targeting Jewish communities.