Israeli companies have been barred from participating in the upcoming arms exhibition set to take place in France next month, a move that has sparked condemnation from the Israeli government. Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, announced on Sunday that his country plans to take “legal and political” measures in response to the ban, targeting French President Emmanuel Macron’s government.
Anti-democratic step: Katz
Foreign Minister Katz called the ban an “anti-democratic step,” particularly concerning given that France is considered an ally of Israel. He expressed that such actions were unacceptable in any form. However, Katz did not elaborate on the specific actions Israel might take in retaliation against the French government.
Decision made by French govt: Organiser
The naval defense exhibition, organized by Euronaval Salon, is scheduled to take place in France between November 4 and 7. While the event organizer clarified that the decision to exclude Israeli companies was made by the French government, they mentioned that Israeli representatives could still attend the fair, even though their companies are barred from showcasing their products.
Israel’s move is an insult: Gallant
Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, also voiced his disapproval of the French government’s decision. He described the move as an insult, reflecting growing tensions between the two nations.
Foreign Minister Katz accused the French government of exhibiting a “hostile attitude” towards the Jewish people, a claim that highlights the increasingly strained diplomatic relations between France and Israel.
Second Ban in Six Months
This is not the first time France has restricted Israeli companies from participating in a defense-related event. According to a report from the Times of Israel, this marks the second such instance within the past six months. The earlier ban occurred in June, shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron called for a ceasefire in Gaza—a request that was rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In the wake of this rejection, France took action to block Israeli companies from another defense fair.
Latest decision affects seven Israeli companies
An unnamed Israeli official informed the Times of Israel that the latest decision affects seven Israeli companies, further straining commercial and defense-related cooperation between the two nations. The official added that the Israeli government, under Netanyahu, is contemplating taking the matter to French courts, accusing Macron’s administration of discriminatory practices.
