France Blocks Israeli Arms Exhibitors at Air Show

France on Monday barred access to the stands of four major Israeli defense companies at the Paris Air Show, citing their display of "offensive weapons," according to a French government source. The affected firms—Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Elbit Systems, and Uvision—were concealed behind black partition walls after allegedly violating terms agreed upon with organizers.

The blocked exhibits reportedly included guided bombs, missiles, and drones, some of which have been used in conflicts such as Gaza. Three smaller Israeli stands without weapon displays, as well as an Israeli Ministry of Defense booth, remained open.

Israeli Officials Decry "Unprecedented" Decision

Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the move as "outrageous" during an interview with French broadcaster LCI, likening it to "creating an Israeli ghetto." The Israeli Defense Ministry accused France of "segregation," stating the black walls were erected overnight after Israeli officials had already set up their exhibits.

"The French are hiding behind political considerations to exclude Israeli offensive weapons from an international exhibition—weapons that compete with French industries," the ministry said in a sharp rebuke.

Boaz Levy, CEO of IAI, drew a historical parallel, calling the partitions reminiscent of "the dark days when Jews were segmented from European society." Executives from Rafael and Elbit Systems labeled the decision "politically motivated," with Elbit's senior vice president, Meshar Sasson, accusing France of stifling competition.

U.S. Lawmakers Join Criticism

Two U.S. Republican politicians attending the event—Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Senator Katie Britt—denounced the move as "absurd" and "short-sighted." Meanwhile, the French prime minister's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The dispute highlights growing diplomatic friction between France and Israel, traditionally close allies. French President Emmanuel Macron has recently distanced himself from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, particularly over its military actions in Gaza.

Background and Broader Context

The Paris Air Show, one of the world’s largest aerospace exhibitions, features over 2,400 companies from 48 countries. While nine Israeli firms were initially slated to participate—fewer than in previous years—a French court recently rejected a bid by NGOs to ban them over alleged ties to the Gaza conflict.

Organizers stated they were mediating to resolve the standoff, seeking a "favourable outcome" for all parties. The weeklong event, held at Le Bourget airfield near Paris, showcases military and civilian aviation technology, including drones, fighter jets, and helicopters.

France’s decision underscores the delicate balance between commercial interests, diplomatic relations, and ethical considerations in the global arms trade.