Israelis visiting the Paris The Eurosatory 2024 arms show were made to sign a commitment they would not cooperate with Israeli companies that were banned from participation, over alleged war crimes. Organizers said this was the result of a hasty decision taken because of the restrictions on Israeli participation, that was forced on them.
"This is an unfortunate initiative, rashly decided because of the court ruling on June 14," the organizers said adding their apology and pointing out that they had appealed the ruling.
Citing suspicions of war crimes in Gaza, France canceled the participation of 74 Israeli defense companies, which were expected to play a significant role in the exhibition. A video from the event shows the area designated for the Israeli companies, now used as a storage space, located directly opposite the VIP room.
Despite the ban, the court's decision was not prominently displayed. Instead, a small sign was placed at the exit of the suburban train station leading to the exhibition. The sign clearly stated that the entry of representatives and companies selling Israeli products or collaborating with Israeli firms was prohibited. Those ignoring the sign encountered a small pro-Palestinian protest, where about 20 people waved Palestinian flags and held a banner reading: "The Jewish-French Union for Peace," while chanting "Israel is a murderer."
Exhibitors at the event avoided interacting with the few Israeli visitors. "We are not allowed to speak with Israeli representatives," said a representative from a French drone company. Another booth provided a full explanation of ballistic missiles manufactured in Turkey, assuring they were "tested in combat conditions," but the representative chose to remain anonymous. One booth acknowledged their products contained Israeli components, which were "removed" from the list for the exhibition. Turkish and Abu Dhabi representatives showcasing an armored ambulance ended their conversation with Ynet when they realized the Israeli connection.