The UK government has confirmed that no Israeli officials will attend next month’s Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) arms fair in London. This move indicates how the UK excludes Israeli officials. This is due to deepening tensions between Britain and Israel over the Gaza conflict.
Defence Ministry Confirms Exclusion
A UK Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated that “no Israeli government delegation will be invited to attend DSEI UK 2025.” The spokesperson added that Israeli defence companies remain free to exhibit. However, official representatives will not be part of the event. This decision reflects the stance where the UK excludes Israeli officials but allows ongoing trade activities.
The DSEI fair is one of the world’s largest arms exhibitions, held biennially in London. It brings together governments, defence contractors, and security experts from across the globe, but UK excludes Israeli officials from participation.
Israel Condemns Move
Israeli officials described the exclusion as “discrimination.” They argued that blocking government representatives while allowing companies to attend creates an unfair distinction.
The move comes as relations between London and Tel Aviv strain under the weight of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza. The UK government has faced growing domestic and international pressure to review arms trade ties with Israel.
Rising Diplomatic Tensions
The UK exclusion signals a sharper stance from London amid global debates about military support for Israel. While trade links with Israeli defence firms continue, the absence of government officials from the event highlights political friction. The UK excludes Israeli officials.
Observers say the decision reflects an attempt by the UK to balance defence trade interests with mounting political pressure over the Gaza conflict.
