Israeli Arms Makers Absent: Empty exhibition stands belonging to Israeli weapons manufacturers, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, marked the commencement of the Dubai Airshow. This development unfolded against the backdrop of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
Notably, the booths were situated in proximity to the pavilion of United Arab Emirates (UAE) state arms manufacturer EDGE, with whom IAI had previously signed joint development programs during the 2021 Dubai Airshow. Curiously, both IAI and Rafael did not provide an immediate response to inquiries regarding their absence, leaving the reason for the unmanned exhibition stands shrouded in uncertainty.
A conspicuous sight was the IAI exhibition stand, demarcated by red ropes and devoid of any staff presence. In contrast, the locally registered Elbit Systems, another Israeli company, opted for manned representation at their exhibition stand, albeit with one staff member declining to engage with press queries.
The mounting death toll resulting from Israel’s military intervention in Gaza, initiated in response to cross-border attacks by the Palestinian Hamas militant group on October 7, prompted Arab and Muslim nations to advocate for a cessation in arms sales to Israel. This geopolitical context adds layers of complexity to the Israeli companies’ participation in the Dubai Airshow, especially given the previous collaborations between IAI and EDGE.
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Elbit Systems, while participating in the exhibition, has a unique dimension to its presence. The UAE-registered subsidiary of Elbit Systems maintained its staffing during the event, indicating a continuity in the Israeli company’s efforts to establish long-term cooperation with the Emirati military. Notably, this subsidiary was established in 2021, aligning with the broader trend of Israeli companies openly participating in UAE events since 2020, following the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The UAE, undeterred by international outcry over the Gaza conflict, reportedly intends to uphold its diplomatic ties with Israel. This commitment was reaffirmed during a joint meeting of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), attended by Emirati Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The meeting, which called for an arms embargo on Israel, highlighted the nuanced geopolitical landscape shaped by the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords in 2020. The UAE emerged as a trailblazer, becoming the most prominent Arab nation to establish diplomatic ties with Israel in three decades, setting the stage for other Arab states to follow suit.
Against this intricate geopolitical tapestry, the absence of Israeli exhibitors at the Dubai Airshow raises questions about the evolving dynamics of regional relationships, diplomatic commitments, and the impact of conflicts on international business engagements.
Our Reader’s Queries
Does Israel manufacture its own weapons?
For several decades, IWI and the Magen division of Israeli Military Industries have been producing their weapons in Ramat HaSharon. The factory has been a crucial part of the manufacturing industry in the area for many years.
What company supplies Israel with weapons?
Lockheed Martin, the biggest weapons manufacturer globally, provides Israel with F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, which have been extensively used to bomb Gaza. Additionally, Israel employs the company’s C-130 Hercules transport planes to support the ground invasion of Gaza.
What is Article 158 Israel?
In 1967, the Water Supervision Law was amended through Order No. 158. This order placed all wells, springs, and water projects under the direct control of the Israeli Military Commander. Any installation or resource constructed without a permit would be seized.
Where does Israel get arms?
Israel’s arms export business has been on the rise in recent years. While the country does import weapons from the UK, Italy, Canada, and Germany, the majority of its imports – a whopping 92 percent – come from the United States. This highlights the strong relationship between the two countries in terms of defense and security.