Israeli companies such as Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Elbit Systems and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems have regularly taken part in NEDS in previous years. The exhibition, which focuses mainly on the maritime sector, will open on 20 November 2025 for the 36th time.
The Dutch government has recently shifted its policy towards Israel and is supporting EU moves to impose sanctions. Last May, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp announced support for a legal review of the Association Agreement with Israel, which found “indications” that Israel is violating international law.
Since then, the Netherlands has sought to suspend Israeli companies from the EU Horizon innovation programme and reduce trade relations. It is not clear whether the government directly influenced this decision, with Israeli sources saying the organisers attributed it to “security issues and organisational difficulties.”
The Netherlands stopped exporting weapons to Israel months after the Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023 and the ensuing war in Gaza, following a court ruling. However, it continues to indirectly provide spare parts for the F-35 fighter jet through third countries.
This exclusion is another limitation on Israeli defence firms in Europe after they were prevented from exhibiting at the French Eurosatory arms fair near Paris in June 2024. Last year, IAI showcased the Barak missile defence system and drones at NEDS, while Rafael displayed its naval Iron Dome system.
Source: Globes.
