LONDON, Aug 29 (Reuters) - Britain has banned Israeli officials from attending its biggest defence trade fair, citing the escalation of the war against Hamas in Gaza, in an attempt to pressure a historically close ally.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government said in July it would recognize a Palestinian state unless Israel took steps to alleviate suffering in the enclave and meet other conditions, angering the Israeli government.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense announced that, due to this ban, it will not organize its national pavilion at the Defense & Security Equipment International (DSEI) fair in London, as it had done in previous years.
However, Israeli defense companies such as Elbit Systems, Rafael, IAI and Uvision will be able to participate.
Britain's decision resembles a clash at the Paris Air Show three months ago, when France covered the stands of Israeli companies that refused to remove offensive weapons from the exhibition with black panels, provoking a strong reaction from Israel.
A British government spokesman said on Friday that Israel's decision to further escalate its military operation in Gaza was wrong.
"As a result, we can confirm that no Israeli government delegation will be invited to DSEI UK 2025," he said.
"A diplomatic solution is needed to end this war now, with an immediate ceasefire, the return of hostages and an increase in humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza," the spokesman added.
Israel called Britain's decision an "unfortunate act of discrimination" that "introduces completely inappropriate political considerations into a defense industry trade fair."
The four-day fair, which opens on September 9, brings together government delegations and private companies to exhibit military equipment and weapons at London's Excel Centre. The event takes place every two years.
DSEI is organized by the private company Clarion Defence and Security, with support from the British government and the military.
