France Shuts Israeli Defense Booths at Air Show

French authorities closed the main Israeli defense booths at the Paris Air Show, citing violations of terms restricting displays to defensive weapons due to humanitarian concerns over Gaza. Prime Minister François Bayrou claimed Israeli exhibitors were informed in advance, but Israeli officials disputed this, calling the move politically and commercially motivated. Israeli companies protested by posting messages on the partitions and accused France of discrimination, while also noting that French offensive weapons remained on display. The closures drew international criticism and highlighted growing diplomatic rifts between France and Israel. A French court had previously denied activist efforts to ban Israeli participation entirely. Israeli participation at the show continued in a limited capacity.