LONDON: A major arms fair opened Tuesday in London without Israeli government officials attending, reflecting worsening diplomatic relations between the UK and Israel over the Gaza conflict. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration barred the officials from the four-day Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) trade fair, citing Israel’s “decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza.”
French News Agency AFP reported that despite strains, 51 Israeli defence companies, including Elbit Systems, Rafael, and Israel Aerospace Industries, are exhibiting, making Israel the fifth-largest national contingent after the UK, the United States, Australia, and Germany.
Protests and Criticism
Morning Star, a British daily newspaper reported that Over 100 grassroots and activist groups, including Palestinian solidarity campaigners and anti-arms organisations, are expected to protest at the ExCeL London exhibition centre. Emily Apple, spokesperson for the Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT), condemned the presence of Israeli companies, stating that they “should be investigated for crimes against humanity, not invited to profit from the unspeakable devastation they have caused in Gaza.
Political Context and International Repercussions
The fair coincides with Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s official three-day visit to London, aimed at showing solidarity with the Jewish community amid a surge in antisemitism. Meanwhile, Britain has suspended some trade talks with Israel and limited arms export licences linked to Gaza, though components for Israeli F-35 jets are still exported.
Labour leader Starmer has signalled that the UK could formally recognise a Palestinian state later this month if Israel does not agree to a ceasefire. European scrutiny of Israeli arms exports is growing: France recently blocked access to Israeli exhibitors at the Paris Air Show over “offensive weapons.”
Background
Israel’s military operations in Gaza have repeatedly drawn international criticism for their heavy toll on civilians and infrastructure. While Israel cites security threats from Hamas as justification for airstrikes, ground offensives, and blockades, human rights organisations accuse it of disproportionate use of force and collective punishment. Recurrent attacks have destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure, leaving Gaza’s 2.3 million residents in a chronic humanitarian crisis.
The London arms fair, where Israeli defence companies are exhibiting despite the absence of government officials, raises ethical concerns. Some of the technologies on display — including drones, surveillance systems, and precision weaponry — are similar to those used in Gaza. Critics argue that facilitating the sale of such equipment to conflict zones underscores the moral and legal dilemmas of the global arms trade, particularly when civilian casualties and humanitarian crises are involved.
