In a significant escalation, a French district court has ruled that the organizers of the prestigious Eurosatory 2024 defense and security trade show, one of the world's largest defense fairs, must ban anyone working for or representing Israeli firms from participating. This follows an earlier directive from the French Defense Ministry to prohibit Israeli defense companies from exhibiting at the event.
The initial ban, issued last month, was prompted by President Emmanuel Macron's call for an immediate cessation of IDF operations in Rafah following an Israeli airstrike that led to civilian casualties. As a result, 74 Israeli firms, including 10 set to exhibit weapons, were barred from setting up stands at the show, scheduled to take place from June 17 to June 21 near Paris’s main international airport.
As reported by the Times of Israel, in a letter dated Saturday, Coges Event President Charles Beaudoin expressed concern over the court's ruling, stating it "goes beyond the government’s decision taken two weeks ago." While the government decision prevented Israeli firms from exhibiting, the court's ruling extends to banning their representatives from even attending the event.
Beaudoin indicated that Coges is appealing the decisions through the fastest legal channels available, but confirmed that the court's ruling will be enforced for now. The French government is also expected to issue a response.
The ban not only affects Israeli employees but also non-Israelis working for Israeli firms, though Israelis employed by non-Israeli firms will still be allowed entry. Despite these measures, there is no blanket ban on Israelis visiting the fair.
The controversy arose after an Israeli strike targeting Hamas terrorists in Rafah ignited a fire in a complex housing displaced Palestinians, resulting in numerous civilian deaths. The incident sparked international outrage and protests in France, leading to Macron's demand for an immediate ceasefire.
Critics argue that the ban is not just a political statement but a dangerous act of discrimination, echoing historical antisemitic policies.