LONDON, August 29 — Israeli government representatives will not be invited to a major London arms fair next month, a UK government spokesperson announced Friday, citing strained diplomatic relations with Israel over the Gaza conflict.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the decision affects the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) UK 2025 event in September. AFP reported that a UK defense ministry statement confirmed, “We can confirm that no Israeli government delegation will be invited to attend DSEI UK 2025.” While Israeli defense companies can still participate, Israel condemned the move as “discrimination,” with its defense ministry announcing a withdrawal from the event and cancellation of a national pavilion.
The UK, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has recently suspended arms export licenses to Israel for use in Gaza, halted free trade talks, and sanctioned two far-right Israeli ministers due to the ongoing war. AFP reported that the UK government statement added, “The Israeli government’s decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza is wrong,” calling for an immediate ceasefire, the return of hostages, and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Israel’s defense ministry criticized the ban as a “deliberate and regrettable act of discrimination.” AFP noted that Starmer has previously stated that Britain will recognize a Palestinian state in September if Israel does not agree to a truce in the Gaza war, which began with a Hamas attack in October 2023. Separately, France blocked Israeli arms manufacturers from displaying offensive weapons at the Paris Air Show in June, and EU foreign ministers are set to discuss new sanctions against Israel and Hamas in Copenhagen on Saturday.
The Chenab Times learned that Sweden and the Netherlands have already advocated for additional measures, though no further details were available.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
