France angers Israel by closing four weapons stands at Paris Airshow
France Slams Israeli Weapons Showcase at Paris Airshow
France has taken a tough stance against Israeli companies showcasing contentious weaponry at the Paris Airshow, forcing the closure of stands belonging to Elbit Systems, Rafael, IAI, and Uvision. The French authorities allegedly instructed these firms to remove their offensive or kinetic weapons from public view after they refused to comply[1][2][3].
The incident unfolded overnight as black wooden panels and barricades were set up around the quarantined Israeli pavilions, effectively barring the companies from participating actively[3]. French authorities claim that the weapon systems marketed by these firms could not be exhibited, given the volatile situation in Gaza.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense is displeased with France's move, calling it "outrageous and unprecedented." The ministry believes that the decision was driven by a combination of political and commercial factors. France has lavished competition by awarding several contracts to Israeli defense companies, and this sudden closure might be an attempt to thwart their technological edge[3].
The French Prime Minister's office has yet to provide official comment on the matter. But Meshar Sasson, Senior Vice President at Elbit Systems, expressed his concerns about the suppression of competition[3]. He accused France of trying to maintain a competitive advantage in the defense industry by censoring Israeli offensive weapons[3].
Meanwhile, the Paris Airshow continues to witness enthusiastic business ventures, particularly in the realm of aviation. Airbus, for instance, has clinched lucrative deals worth $8 billion from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund[1].
Saudi leasing company AviLease has ordered 30 Airbus A320neo single-aisle jets and 10 A350 freighters, representing around $3.5 billion in potential sales[1]. This marks Saudi Arabia's initial direct deal with Airbus as it aspires to become a significant aviation hub in the Middle East, challenging Dubai and Qatar[1].
European politics and power dynamics are also permeating the Paris Airshow, with Poland potentially entering into a 40 Airbus A220 deal as part of a renewed partnership with France[2]. The contest for this contract has garnered considerable attention due to Poland's desire to strengthen relations with France amid uncertainty in their previous defense commitments[2].
In other business news, Japanese airline ANA is finalizing a previous Airbus order, and Egyptair is reportedly on the verge of securing six additional Airbus A350s[1]. Additionally, Starlux, a Taiwanese carrier, may soon order more A350 long-haul planes[1]. Despite the political tensions, US arms manufacturers are still aggressively peddling their products to European customers. The Paris Airshow has piqued interest this year, attracting investors and enthusiasts from around the world[1].
- Given the French government's recent actions against Israeli defense companies at the Paris Airshow, it's possible that the Israeli Ministry of Defense may see an opportunity to bolster its own sports of technological advancement in the defense industry.
- Meanwhile, in a stark contrast to the political tug-of-war, Saudi Arabia is making headways in the sports of aviation, with significant investments in Airbus aircraft, aiming to establish itself as a major aviation hub in the Middle East.
