Paris Airshow Clash: France Shut Down Israeli Stands Over Offensive Weapons

The Paris Airshow became a flashpoint in international relations as France ordered the closure of four Israeli company stands, citing the display of offensive weapons. The decision has been met with sharp condemnation from Israel, underscoring the growing rift between the longstanding allies.

A source familiar with the situation revealed to Reuters that French authorities mandated the shutdown after Israeli firms ignored a directive from a French security agency to withdraw kinetic weapons from the exhibition. The show's organizer, Gifas, confirmed the closure, though details remain scarce.

While some Israeli stands sans hardware have remained, this development has further strained relations with French President Emmanuel Macron's criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza. The Israeli Ministry of Defence decried the removal order as politically motivated and accused France of commercial favoritism.

(With inputs from agencies.)