France Bans Israeli Firms from Defense Fair

French authorities have banned Israeli defense firms from the Eurosatory 2024 defense trade show in Paris. The decision follows an Israeli airstrike in Gaza that killed at least 45 people and has drawn international outrage. Seventy-four Israeli firms had been set to participate, but Coges Events, the organizers, confirmed their exclusion without providing an explanation.

French authorities have barred Israeli defense firms from participating in the Eurosatory 2024 defense trade show near Paris next month.

The announcement was made on Friday by the event organizers, Coges Events.

Without providing an explanation, Coges confirmed that there will be no Israeli defense industry stands at the fair, originally scheduled from June 17 to June 21 near Paris' main international airport.

Seventy-four Israeli firms were initially set to attend, with about ten planning to exhibit weapons.

The Israeli embassy declined to comment.

This decision follows a recent Israeli airstrike on a displaced persons camp in Gaza, which has ignited international outrage and protests in France.

The air raid killed at least 45 people in Rafah, according to local authorities, adding to the heavy toll of the ongoing Gaza conflict.

The conflict began after an attack by Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, resulting in 1,189 deaths on the Israeli side and 252 hostages taken, 121 of whom remain in Gaza.

Israel’s counteroffensive has resulted in over 36,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians.

Activist groups had recently warned Coges against facilitating arms deals that could contribute to crimes in Gaza or other occupied territories.

Coges emphasized that the event is meant for showcasing defense and security equipment and is not a marketplace for transactions.