Israeli Companies to Participate in Paris Air Show, Macron Assures Netanyahu

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced on Sunday that French President Emmanuel Macron assured him during a phone conversation that Israeli companies would be able to participate in the upcoming Paris Air Show in June. This marks a significant shift following last year's exclusion of Israeli defense firms from a defense industry exhibition in Paris due to political tensions surrounding Israel's military operations in Gaza.

Macron's assurance comes after a challenging period in Israeli-French relations, with the ban on Israeli companies leading to strains. However, the situation improved after a French court overturned a government ban on Israeli participation in a naval arms exhibition in Paris last October.

The Paris Air Show, scheduled for June 16 to 22, 2025, is the world’s largest event in aerospace, aviation, and defense, attracting global industry leaders. The event alternates every year with the Farnborough Airshow in the UK. Leading aerospace and defense companies from around the world, including Israeli firms, will be showcasing their innovations.

This diplomatic shift reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize relations between Israel and France, amid a broader geopolitical context. The situation follows the ongoing ceasefire agreements between Israel and both Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as Israel’s continuous defense advancements.

In related news, the Israeli Ministry of Defense has awarded Elbit Systems an $80 million contract to enhance the survivability of its F-16I fighter aircraft, underscoring the importance of advanced defense technologies in maintaining Israel’s security.