France restricts Israeli weapons from major defense exhibition
Paris limits Israeli defense displays at Paris arms show amid growing diplomatic rift with Tel Aviv
TEL AVIV, Israel (MNTV) — France has imposed restrictions on Israeli weapons and defense systems from being fully showcased at a major international defense exhibition in Paris, in a move that has intensified already strained relations between the two countries.
According to Israel’s defense ministry, French authorities have barred Israeli government officials from attending the upcoming arms show and have also restricted the range of defense equipment Israeli companies are permitted to exhibit.
French officials confirmed that Israeli firms will only be allowed to display air defense and missile defense-related systems, while limiting broader participation in the event.
They did not provide detailed reasons for the decision and did not respond directly to Israel’s claim regarding the exclusion of government representatives.
An Israeli defense ministry spokesperson strongly criticized the move, describing it as politically driven and part of what Israel views as a pattern of discriminatory treatment by France in recent years.
The spokesperson called the restrictions “disgraceful,” arguing that they reflect a broader shift in French policy that undermines defense cooperation and diplomatic engagement between the two states.
Relations between France and Israel have deteriorated since late 2023, particularly over France’s criticism of Israeli military attacks in Gaza and occupation of Lebanese territories.
Additional tensions have emerged over wider regional issues, including Iran and France’s position on rightful Palestinian statehood.
The dispute follows France’s earlier decision to exclude Israel from the 2024 Eurosatory defense exhibition during the Gaza war.
This year’s Paris defense show, scheduled to open on June 15 and featuring more than 2,600 exhibitors, is among the world’s largest arms industry events.
Israeli officials have also protested recent French diplomatic steps recognizing Palestinian statehood, further widening political divisions between Paris and Tel Aviv.
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