The French government has stirred up controversy by banning Israeli companies from participating in the upcoming Euronaval maritime weapons exhibition in November. This decision marks the second time France has restricted Israeli participation in arms exhibitions, following a similar ban at the Eurosatory event earlier this year.
Euronaval organizers have confirmed that Israeli companies will be allowed to attend the exhibition, but without booths or equipment displays, much to the disappointment of Israeli defense industries. The move has sparked condemnation from Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for what he deemed as a discriminatory action against Israel.
Israeli company Masanot Yisrael, set to showcase its maritime defense products at Euronaval, plans to challenge the French decision through legal means. The Israeli Manufacturers’ Association also intends to file a lawsuit, citing the ban as unjust and violating global trade rules.
As tensions between France and Israel escalate, the future of their trade and security cooperation hangs in the balance amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.