Rafael, IAI, and Elbit Proceed Amidst Controversy Over Gaza Conflict
Despite the British government’s decision to bar an official Israeli delegation from attending the Defence Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition in London, Israel’s leading defense companies plan to participate in the event, scheduled for September 9-12.
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries, and Elbit Systems have confirmed their attendance at DSEI, even after the Israeli Ministry of Defense announced its withdrawal and the cancellation of the national pavilion in protest of the UK’s stance on the Gaza conflict.
UK Government Cites Gaza Operations
The UK government linked its decision to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. A government spokesperson stated on August 29 that the „Israeli government’s decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza is wrong.” Consequently, no Israeli government delegation would be invited to DSEI UK 2025.
Israel’s Ministry of Defense Responds
In response, the Israeli Ministry of Defense condemned the restrictions as „a deliberate and regrettable act of discrimination against Israel’s representatives.” The ministry announced its withdrawal from the exhibition, asserting that the UK’s decision „plays into the hands of extremists, grants legitimacy to terrorism, and introduces political considerations wholly inappropriate for a professional defence industry exhibition.”
However, the ministry clarified that it would fully support Israeli industries that choose to participate.
Companies Forge Ahead
Several smaller Israeli firms also signaled their intent to showcase their products at DSEI, including Uvision, Orbit, and Smartshooter.
Defense Exports at Record Highs
Israel’s defense exports reached a record $14.7 billion in 2024, with 54 percent of deals made with European countries. Israel has notably sold its Arrow air defense system and Trophy active protection system to Germany, and its David’s Sling system to Finland.
Israeli Presence in the UK
Israeli companies have a significant presence in the UK. Elbit Systems has a subsidiary headquartered there, and Rafael acquired Pearson in the UK in 2022.
Echoes of Past Controversies
This isn’t the first time Israeli defense firms have faced challenges at international expos. In 2024 and 2025, the French government banned Israeli firms from participating in exhibitions in Paris, also in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
National Pavilion Absence
At large defense shows, Israel’s Ministry of Defense typically hosts a national pavilion, inaugurated by the ministry. SIBAT, the ministry’s International Defense Cooperation Directorate, supports participating defense firms. The UK’s ban means these ministry-backed activities will not occur.
DSEI Continues to List Israel
As of August 31, the DSEI UK website still listed Israel as a participant alongside other nations. DSEI 2023 broke attendance records with 1,500 exhibitors.
