Israel Halts Purchases of French Weapons

Israel has decided to halt purchases of weapons from French companies following the arms embargo imposed by France during the Gaza war.

France introduced the embargo during the Gaza conflict, and it remains in effect.

In response, the Israeli Defense Ministry will seek alternative suppliers, according to Cursorinfo.

The decision applies even to contracts covering individual components for various weapons systems.

Over the past 18 months, the Defense Ministry, led by Minister Israel Katz and Director General Amir Baram, has pursued a program to maximize Israel’s military self-sufficiency.

To support this effort, Israel has made significant investments in domestic weapons production. However, it is currently impossible to fully eliminate foreign purchases.

Before the conflict, France exported an average of €20 million annually to Israel.

The main exports included electronic components and raw materials. After the war began, France suspended export licenses and imposed restrictions on Israeli defense companies.

Paris has also barred Israeli representatives from participating in defense exhibitions and conferences on French territory since the start of the conflict.

Following French President Emmanuel Macron’s call for an arms embargo on Israel in October 2024, France suspended the sale of certain weapons that could be used in IDF operations in Gaza.

In March 2026, Israel increased its military budget by $10 billion to support operations on three fronts.