A significant internal disagreement has emerged within Germany’s ruling coalition regarding the recent partial suspension of arms exports to Israel. Alexander Hoffmann, leader of the Christian Social Union (CSU) parliamentary group, has publicly voiced strong criticism of the decision made by Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and indicated a need for immediate internal discussions within the coalition.
Speaking to Bild newspaper, Hoffmann stated the CSU was not consulted prior to the decision and expressed serious reservations, describing it as a potential departure from long-standing continuity in German foreign policy toward Israel and requiring substantial justification. He affirmed the CSU will initiate discussions with coalition partners to address their concerns.
Adding to the internal pressure, Horst Seehofer, former Bavarian Minister President and honorary chairman of the CSU, also voiced his disapproval. In a statement to Bild, Seehofer labelled the decision a mistake, predicting it will have lasting repercussions on German foreign policy. The diverging views highlight a growing tension within the coalition regarding the appropriate level of arms sales to Israel amidst ongoing regional instability.