BERLIN — Germany will not authorize any exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza "until further notice," Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Friday, in a strikingly quick response by one of Israel's strongest international backers to a decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Cabinet to take over Gaza City.

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz says Germany will not authorize exports of military equipment that could be used in Gaza "until further notice"

This decision comes after the Israeli Cabinet announced plans to take over Gaza City

On Friday, Merz emphasized that Israel "has the right to defend itself against Hamas' terror"

He stated that the release of Israeli hostages and negotiations toward a cease-fire in the 22-month conflict "are our

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