France Bars Israeli Defense Firms from Euronaval 2024 Amidst Escalating Tensions
In a move reflecting the escalating tensions between France and Israel, the French government has barred Israeli defense companies from showcasing their equipment at the upcoming Euronaval 2024 exhibition. This prestigious maritime defense event, scheduled for early November in Paris, will proceed without the participation of Israeli firms, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from the Israeli government.
Israeli Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, publicly denounced the decision, calling it “a disgrace to the French nation and the values of the free world that it claims to uphold.” Gallant accused French President Emmanuel Macron of seeking to impose an arms embargo on Israel, referencing Macron’s previous calls for a halt to arms exports used by Israel in Gaza and Lebanon.
Euronaval organizers confirmed that the decision to exclude Israeli companies from exhibiting arms and equipment came directly from the French government. However, Israeli delegations will be permitted to attend the event without exhibition space. This restriction applies to seven Israeli companies.
This incident follows a similar occurrence in May 2023, where Israeli companies were initially banned from the Eurosatory defense and security exhibition by the French government due to Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The ban was later overturned by a court ruling.
The decision to exclude Israel from Euronaval comes amidst heightened tensions between President Macron and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. France has repeatedly called for a ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza, condemning Israel’s military actions, particularly those resulting in civilian casualties. France also criticized “deliberate” Israeli strikes on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) during clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.
This diplomatic standoff underscores the growing international pressure on Israel regarding its military actions in the region. The exclusion from Euronaval, a major platform for showcasing defense technology, further isolates Israel within the international community and highlights the deteriorating relationship between France and Israel.
