On Sunday, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz announced that his ministry will pursue “legal and diplomatic measures” in response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent decision to once again prohibit Israeli companies from participating in a significant defense exhibition in Paris. This marks the second instance this year that such a ban has been enacted.
Officials in Jerusalem indicated that they plan to take the matter to French courts, alleging that Macron is engaging in discriminatory practices, particularly as he has become increasingly critical of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.
In a statement posted on X in both French and Hebrew, Katz condemned what he termed an “anti-democratic” boycott, emphasizing that it is unacceptable behavior from a country that is supposed to be an ally. He urged France and the broader Western community to extend their support to Israel.
Euronaval, the organizer of the event scheduled for November 4-7, confirmed last week that the French government had informed them that Israeli delegations would not be permitted to showcase their stands or exhibit their equipment, although they could still attend the trade show. This decision impacts seven companies.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant sharply criticized the decision, expressing his dissatisfaction on X and labeling Macron’s actions as “a disgrace.” He further accused France of adopting “a hostile policy toward the Jewish people.”
Previously, France had also blocked Israeli firms from attending the Eurosatory military trade show held in Paris in June, amid Macron’s push for a ceasefire in Gaza.
The French president has sparked significant backlash in Jerusalem for his recent advocacy of an arms embargo against Israel, asserting that such a measure is the sole pathway to ceasing hostilities in Gaza and Lebanon, a region where France maintains considerable influence due to its historical ties.