The UK government has barred Israeli officials from attending the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) arms fair in London next month, citing concerns over Israel’s escalating military campaign in Gaza.
A statement from the Ministry of Defence on Friday confirmed that “no Israeli government delegation will be invited to DSEI UK 2025.” However, Israeli defence companies will still be allowed to participate.
Israel condemned the move as “discrimination,” announcing it would withdraw its national pavilion from the event.
The decision follows a series of measures by Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, including suspending arms export licences to Israel for Gaza operations, freezing free trade talks, and sanctioning two far-right Israeli ministers.
“The Israeli government’s decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza is wrong,” the UK said, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the return of hostages, and increased humanitarian aid.
Britain has also signalled plans to recognise a Palestinian state by September if Israel fails to agree to a truce. Similar restrictions were imposed by France in June, and EU foreign ministers are set to discuss further sanctions against both Israel and Hamas in Copenhagen on Saturday.
