PARIS — In a surprising move, French officials have erected black partition walls around the Israeli defense exhibits at the Paris Air Show, a decision criticized by Israel’s Defense Ministry. The Ministry has called for an immediate reversal of this action.
A French appeals court recently ruled against activist groups that aimed to bar Israeli companies from participating in the event, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Paris Air Show, which takes place at Le Bourget north of Paris, is recognized as one of the largest and most important events in the aerospace and defense industry.
According to reports, the black partitions were set up shortly before the show was set to open, isolating Israeli booths from the many other international exhibitors. Israel’s Defense Ministry stated that the decision followed a last-minute request from organizers to remove certain offensive weapon systems from display, which the Israeli exhibitors declined to do.
The ministry expressed disappointment, stating, “France seems to be using political reasons to block Israeli weapons from an international exhibit, which are in competition with similar French products. This act is unbecoming and inappropriate.”
A French official, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the issue, indicated that the decision was made by the General Secretariat for Defense and National Security, linked to the Prime Minister’s office. They added that Israeli exhibitors were notified weeks in advance about the restrictions on specific equipment, and the walls were a last resort due to non-compliance from some exhibitors.
Prime Minister François Bayrou officially opened the air show and is expected to hold a press conference later. Sylvain Pavillet, an attorney for the air show organizers, emphasized that the final decision on exhibitor participation lies with the French government rather than the show’s organizers.
Boaz Levy, CEO of Israeli company IAI, noted that they have participated in the air show for many years and had received all necessary approvals to showcase their equipment. He stated, “We were shocked to discover our booth enclosed by black walls after we had prepared everything for the show.”
This incident has raised questions about the openness of international exhibitions and the influence of political agendas in such forums.
