Johann Wadephul, Germany's Foreign Minister, has announced a formal review of the nation’s arms exports to Israel, driven by concerns regarding compliance with international humanitarian law amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Wadephul indicated that the inquiry aims to determine whether the actions occurring in Gaza can be reconciled with humanitarian law.

In statements reported by national media, he suggested that further arms deliveries might be contingent on the findings of this review.

When questioned about the possibility of a partial halt to arms exports, Wadephul acknowledged the implication of his remarks.

Despite the scrutiny, Wadephul affirmed that Israel must retain the capability to defend itself against external threats, mentioning groups such as the Houthi militia from Yemen, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Iranian influences as significant concerns for Israeli security.

In light of Israel's military activities in Gaza, Wadephul criticized the Israeli government's actions, characterizing the humanitarian assistance entering Gaza as insufficient.

He expressed particular concern for vulnerable populations, stating that 'the sick, the weak, and children are the first to suffer.'

The current debate regarding arms supply to Israel has intensified in Germany, eliciting calls for a halt from several political factions, notably from within the Social Democratic Party (SPD).

Conversely, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt from the Christian Social Union (CSU) has rejected such a suspension, insisting that existing commitments to support Israel militarily must be upheld.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has recently adopted a more critical stance towards Israel but has left the matter of arms exports open for future consideration.

Reports indicate that Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar is expected to visit Berlin next week, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two nations amidst these discussions of arms policy.