UK bans Israeli officials from attending London arms expo amid Gaza crisis
The UK government has collectively decided to prohibit representatives of the Israeli authorities from participating in the prestigious international defense industry exhibition DSEI, held biennially in London.
This move emerges as a response to the escalating conflict in Gaza and Israel’s military actions in the region.
According to British officials, Israeli weapon companies will still be able to take part in DSEI UK 2025 as usual; however, their participation in this year’s event will be barred and is likely to provoke widespread protests.
A government spokesperson emphasized that the decision was made due to the unacceptable escalation of military operations by Israel, particularly its intensified military campaigns in Gaza, which have led to significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis.
Britain continues to call for diplomatic negotiations, a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza residents.
Recently, London has intensified pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging a ceasefire by warning of trade sanctions and the potential recognition of a Palestinian state if Israel does not change course.
It has also been reported that the Israeli side was informed in advance of this ban, which could be revoked if Israel demonstrates compliance with international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The decision came after a scandal at the Paris Air Show in June, where Israeli companies were ordered to remove certain weapons from their exhibits, which they refused to do.