The UK government has barred Israeli officials from attending the country’s leading defence exhibition next month, in a move that underscores growing political tensions over the war in Gaza.
While Israeli defence companies and their UK subsidiaries will still be allowed to participate in the Defence & Security Equipment International (DSEI) show in London, the government confirmed it would not invite representatives of the Israeli state to the high-profile industry event.
The decision comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer prepares to advance recognition of a Palestinian state, following warnings that Britain would take such steps if Israel failed to ease humanitarian suffering in Gaza or meet wider conditions.
A UK government spokesperson said, “The Israeli government’s decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza is wrong. As a result, we can confirm that no Israeli government delegation will be invited to attend DSEI UK 2025. There must be a diplomatic solution to end this war now, with an immediate ceasefire, the return of the hostages and a surge in humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.”
In response, Israel’s defence ministry confirmed it would not run its national pavilion at this year’s event, breaking with past practice. However, major Israeli defence contractors including Elbit Systems, Rafael, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Uvision will still be present on the exhibition floor.
The move mirrors a recent controversy at the Paris Air Show in June, when French organisers concealed Israeli stands with black partitions after companies refused to remove attack weapons from display, sparking anger from Israel.
Condemning Britain’s decision, Israel described the ban as a “regrettable act of discrimination” and claimed it “introduces political considerations wholly inappropriate for a professional defence industry exhibition”.
The four-day DSEI exhibition, due to open on 9 September at London’s ExCel centre, is one of the world’s largest defence and security trade shows. It attracts national delegations and private firms to showcase cutting-edge military technology, equipment and weapons.
The event, held every two years, is organised by Clarion Defence & Security with support from the British government and the UK military.
