The Paris Air Show 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious aviation and defence exhibitions, witnessed an unusual diplomatic development this year. French security authorities ordered the closure of booths belonging to five major Israeli defence companies, citing their display of “offensive weapon systems.”
France Bans Offensive Weapons, Warnings Were Ignored
French officials had explicitly warned Israeli companies ahead of the event not to exhibit equipment such as bombs, missiles, and other offensive systems. However, when firms including Elbit Systems, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Uvision, and several others failed to comply, their stands were shut down on the first day of the event.
Organisers surrounded the affected areas with black panels overnight to isolate the booths. The enforcement of this decision has drawn significant attention from international media and defence circles.
Israel’s Harsh Response: “An Unprecedented Decision”
The Israeli side condemned France’s move as “shameful and unprecedented.” A statement from the Israeli Ministry of Defence claimed the decision was motivated not only by security concerns but also by political and commercial interests.
“By blocking Israel’s advanced offensive weapons, the French are trying to protect their own defence industry. These products were in direct competition with French companies,” the statement said.
Elbit Systems: “If You Can’t Beat the Technology, Hide It”
Elbit Systems Vice President Meshar Sasson criticised the development, saying:
“If you can’t beat the technology, hide it. There’s no other explanation.”
He pointed to the company’s recent major defence contracts in Europe, arguing that the move was anti-competitive.
Some Israeli Booths Remained Open
The Israeli Ministry of Defence’s promotional stand and three smaller Israeli firms that did not exhibit weapons were allowed to remain open. However, the closure of leading Israeli companies’ booths has created a new point of diplomatic tension in Franco-Israeli relations.
