Defense Ministry halts arms purchases from France

Israel's Defense Ministry has stopped all defense procurement from France due to actions that jeopardize its security. A spokesperson stated that France has prohibited Israeli aircraft from using its airspace for operations against Iran, a country with missile capabilities that threaten Europe.

This restriction follows an “ongoing pattern” of measures from France that hinder Israel's defense capabilities. Additional grievances include preventing Israeli defense companies from attending upcoming defense exhibitions and freezing export licenses to Israel.

In response, Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. Amir Baram has decided to fully substitute French defense purchases with domestic or allied sourcing. Communication with French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin has been severed.