PARIS — The French government has publicly justified its choice to prevent Israeli companies involved in conflicts in the Middle East from participating in an upcoming defense trade fair near Paris.
The Euronaval exhibition, scheduled for November 4 to November 7, has stated on its official website that while Israeli companies are welcome to attend, their booths will only be permitted if their products are not utilized in military actions in Gaza or Lebanon.
This restriction has been linked to decisions made by the French government earlier this month.
During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot asserted that this approach does not constitute a boycott against Israeli businesses.
He explained that it would be contradictory for France to allow the showcasing of munitions used in ongoing conflicts while simultaneously advocating for a prompt cease-fire in the regions of Gaza and Lebanon.
Barrot stated, “We have communicated with Israeli authorities, whom we engage with frequently, indicating that their exhibitor participation must align with this stance.”
He went on to mention that any company whose products are not involved in offensive military operations will be allowed to showcase their offerings at the event.
In a recent post on the social media platform X, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz urged French President Emmanuel Macron to lift these restrictions, labeling them as “unacceptable” and “anti-democratic.”
Katz emphasized that “France, along with the entire Western world, should be standing with us – not against us.”
Reaffirming that France maintains its support for Israel’s right to self-defense, Barrot pointed to France’s ongoing export of components for Israel’s “Iron Dome” air-defense system as an example.
However, he reiterated, “It would indeed be inconsistent to allow any promotion of weaponry that is currently being used in Gaza and Lebanon, leading to grave harm to civilian populations, while our government and nation advocate for an immediate cease-fire.”