YnetNews.com reports: “The German government will not approve any exports to Israel of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Friday in response to Israel’s plan to expand its military operations there, marking a significant shift for one of Israel’s staunchest allies in Europe.

Merz said Israel ‘has the right to defend itself against the terror of Hamas’ but urged the government in Jerusalem to avoid ‘any further steps toward annexing the West Bank.’

He said Berlin’s top priorities are negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas. ‘Hamas must not play a role in the future of Gaza,’ Merz added.

While expressing support for Israel’s security, Merz voiced deep concern over ‘the continued suffering of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip’ and called on Israeli leaders to exercise restraint in military operations…”