Defense Ministry halts arms purchases from France, citing ‘pattern’ of actions that ‘harmed Israel’s security’

The Defense Ministry has halted all defense procurement from France in response to French measures that have “harmed Israel’s security,” including prohibiting Israeli aircraft from using French airspace to assist with fighting Iran, a spokesperson for the ministry says, confirming recent reports in Hebrew media.

The spokesperson outlines an “ongoing pattern” of actions by France that “have harmed Israel’s security and the operational capabilities of its defense industry,” the most recent of which is the “prohibition on Israeli aircraft carrying munitions intended for operations against Iran from overflying French airspace.”

Paris has not publicly confirmed reports that it made such a prohibition.

“France is actively obstructing the transfer of munitions to Israel, which is engaged in operations against Iran – a country whose ballistic missiles are capable of reaching European cities, including Paris,” the spokesperson says, repeating claims by Israeli officials that Iran possesses such capabilities.

“The French prohibition was imposed despite prior coordination, despite clear explanations that the munitions were intended solely for Iran, and despite the understanding that this effort is critical for European security as well,” the spokesperson continues.

The spokesperson cites additional grievances, including France’s prevention of “dozens” of Israeli defense companies from exhibiting at the 2024 Eurosatory defense show in Paris and the 2025 Paris Air Show, freezing of export licenses to Israel, and leading a United Nations initiative last year during which Paris and other European nations recognized a Palestinian state.

In response, Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. Amir Baram “has decided to reduce all defense procurement from France to zero,” replacing these purchases with domestic procurement or purchases from “allied countries,” as part of a broader strategy “to build full defense autonomy, without relying on unreliable countries,” the spokesperson says.

The ministry, along with the National Security Council, has informed French Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin that “we do not intend to hold a meeting with her, and that there will be no new professional engagement with the French military,” the spokesperson adds.