Israel’s Ministry of Defense announced on Monday that France had barred Israeli government officials from attending a major international defense exhibition in Paris, according to Arab News.
France had also imposed additional restrictions on Israeli companies participating in the event.
These companies would only be permitted to display only air-defense and missile-defense systems and related technologies.
France’s Defense Ministry, which previously barred Israel from participating in the 2024 Eurosatory defense exhibition due to the war in Gaza, did not provide further details or explain the reason behind the current restrictions.
In response, the Israeli Defense Ministry spokesperson described the decision as “disgraceful,” arguing that it was driven by “political and commercial calculation” and saying that, while regrettable, the move was not unexpected.
“It fits a deeply troubling pattern in French conduct in recent years — a pattern that has consistently placed France on the wrong side of history,” the spokesperson added.
The relations between France and Israel have deteriorated since late 2023, as Paris has become increasingly critical of Israel’s military campaigns in Gaza and Lebanon.
Moreover, Paris has condemned the war launched by Israel and the United States against Iran earlier this year.
At the same time, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly dismissed President Emmanuel Macron’s decision last year to recognize a Palestinian state.
Related Topics:
UK, France Lead 40-Nation Summit to Secure Strait of Hormuz
France Bans Israel’s Ben Gvir over Mocking Gaza Flotilla Activists
Saudi Arabia Explores Mining Partnerships with US, France
