Israel warns UK restrictions at arms expo "legitimises extremism"

The Israeli Ministry of Defence has sharply criticised the British government’s decision to restrict Israel’s official participation in the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) U.K. 2025 exhibition, scheduled to take place in London in September.

In a statement reported by Israeli media, the Ministry described the restrictions on Israeli officials and military representatives as “a deliberate and regrettable act of discrimination.”

It added that the move “plays into the hands of extremists, legitimises terrorism, and introduces political considerations into an area where they have no place.” Despite the limitations, the Ministry affirmed that it would provide support to Israeli defence companies that choose to participate independently.

The British government has barred Israeli officials from attending the major biennial defence and security exhibition, citing ongoing criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

Historically, Israel has maintained a prominent presence at DSEI, which showcases weapons, military equipment, and defence technologies. Each participating country is typically assigned its own pavilion, though it remains unclear whether Israel will host a dedicated pavilion this year.

Organised by Clarion Defence and Security Limited, DSEI receives significant backing from the British government and armed forces and regularly attracts a mix of national delegations and private defence firms.

This decision follows a similar controversy earlier in June at the Paris Air Show, where Israeli firms were ordered to remove certain weapons from display but refused to comply.

According to officials familiar with the matter, the British government formally notified Israel of the restriction and indicated that it could be lifted "if Israel demonstrates a clear commitment to upholding international humanitarian law in the Occupied Palestinian Territories".

By Tamilla Hasanova