Israel Suspends Defence Trade With France Over Diplomatic Tensions

Israel has suspended defence trade relations with France following rising diplomatic tensions between both countries over what Israeli officials described as Paris’ “hostile posture” toward the country in the last two years.

The decision, announced Tuesday by Israeli Ministry of Defense, was said to have been authorised by Defence Minister Israel Katz and Director-General Amir Baram, with the backing of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israeli authorities said the move followed a series of actions by France considered unfriendly to bilateral military cooperation, including restrictions on Israeli defence exports, limits on military coordination, and policy disagreements over regional conflicts.

Although existing defence agreements between both countries will remain in force, officials disclosed that future large-scale government-to-government military transactions would be halted, while only limited private-sector dealings may continue.

According to the ministry, France had prevented Israeli defence companies from participating in major global defence exhibitions, including the Paris Air Show, and also denied dozens of Israeli firms access to military trade events.

Israeli officials further alleged that French authorities froze export licences and barred Israeli aircraft transporting military equipment from passing through French airspace.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump had also criticised France over the restrictions, saying Israeli military supply aircraft were denied overflight access.

Israel maintained that such actions weaken cooperation at a time the country is confronting regional threats, especially from Iran, warning that the restrictions may affect wider Western security interests.

The diplomatic strain has also been linked to disagreements over the war in Gaza, where France has repeatedly called for de-escalation and supported recognition of a Palestinian state in 2025 — a move strongly opposed by Israel.

Paris also reportedly urged Israel to scale down military operations against Hezbollah during previous regional confrontations, further widening policy differences.

Despite the tensions, both countries have maintained limited strategic cooperation, with France previously supporting joint efforts to intercept missiles and drones during regional escalations in 2024.

Israeli authorities, however, said the latest action reflects a long-term strategic decision to reduce dependence on French defence supplies and strengthen military partnerships with other allied nations.