France again restricts Israel at arms exhibition: only defense and interception systems - and no government representatives
France is restricting Israel at the Euronaval naval arms exhibition: only defense and interception systems are allowed, and Israeli government representatives will not be able to participate. A security official called the step "cowardly" and claimed it was intended to prevent competition with French industries.
The diplomatic crisis between Israel and France is once again harming Israeli defense industries: their entry to the Euronaval naval arms exhibition, which will open next week near Paris, is conditional on presenting only air defense and missile interception systems. The Euronaval exhibition is held every two years and is considered one of the largest naval arms fairs in the world. Among the Israeli companies expected to participate are Elbit Systems, Orbit, and the Israel Aerospace Industries. In addition to the ban on presenting offensive systems, French authorities also prohibit the participation of official representatives of the Israeli government, including representatives of the Ministry of Defense. A security official criticized the decision and told Calcalist: "This is a cowardly and unsurprising step by the French, intended to prevent competition with French industries for cynical business reasons." Two years ago, Israeli companies were prevented from participating in the exhibition after a complete French ban. Since the outbreak of the October 7 war, France has made it difficult for Israeli participation in arms exhibitions in Paris. In the background is harsh criticism by the French government and President Macron of Israel's actions in Gaza. France is leading with Britain and Canada a move to impose economic sanctions on Israel.