France was the largest European arms exporter to Israel in 2024, despite publicly blocking some military sales over the genocide in Gaza. According to new EU data cited by Middle East Eye, France granted approximately €362 million in arms export licences to Israel last year; far surpassing Germany (€169 million), Greece (€114 million), and Romania (€103 million).
France had previously announced restrictions on certain weapons sales, particularly those that could be used in Gaza. However, much of the approved equipment reportedly included components, surveillance systems, and defence technologies that continued to support Israeli military operations. These licences expose France’s continued defence cooperation with Israel.
In March 2026, Israel announced it would halt all new defence procurement from France, accusing Paris of adopting a ‘hostile’ stance after French authorities blocked several Israeli weapons manufacturers from exhibiting offensive weapons at the Paris Air Show. Israeli officials also criticised France’s increasing support for ceasefire efforts and international pressure regarding Israeli war crimes in Gaza and Lebanon.
France’s position reflects a broader European pattern in which governments publicly express concern over humanitarian violations while continuing defence trade behind the scenes, raising questions about accountability and the enforcement of international law.
