France bans ‘Israeli’ officials from Paris arms expo

‘Israel's’ Defence Ministry said Monday that French authorities have barred ‘Israeli’ government representatives from attending the Eurosatory defence exhibition scheduled in Paris this month.

Eurosatory ranks among the world's premier defence and security trade shows, typically drawing hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors.

In addition to excluding government representatives, France has prohibited ‘Israeli’ weapons manufacturers from displaying offensive systems at the event.

‘Israeli’ firms will be permitted solely to showcase air defence products, according to the ministry's statement.

This development follows a pattern of restrictions observed in previous years.

In 2024, French authorities initially banned ‘Israeli’ companies from Eurosatory amid criticism of military operations in Gaza, a measure later challenged in court.

Despite subsequent legal rulings and diplomatic efforts, relations have remained challenging.

‘Israeli’ officials have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the latest measures. The Defence Ministry has previously indicated a strategic shift, including halting defence procurement from France, to reduce reliance on partners perceived as adopting hostile positions.

Over 30 ‘Israeli’ defence firms had planned to participate in the 2026 edition of Eurosatory.