Israeli defence companies will not be permitted to attend this year’s NEDS exhibition in Rotterdam, with organisers citing “security and organisational reasons” against the backdrop of the Gaza war.
The annual NEDS fair, set for 20 November at Ahoy Rotterdam, has in past years hosted Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Elbit Systems and Rafael. According to Globes, organisers informed Israeli firms in writing that their participation would not be allowed in 2025. The Times of Israel confirmed the decision, noting Israeli sources acknowledged they will not take part.
The announcement follows the Dutch government’s stance since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, under which no military exports to Israel have been approved under general licences. In April, The Hague extended controls to dual-use goods, while in 2024 a Dutch court barred the export of F-35 spare parts to Israel over concerns of potential breaches of international law.
Despite these restrictions, the Netherlands has continued to procure Israeli systems, including a €250 million deal for Rafael’s SPIKE LR2 anti-tank missiles signed in September 2024. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp has backed a review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, citing concerns over Israel’s compliance with human rights clauses.
The Netherlands joins France and Spain in restricting Israeli firms from major defence exhibitions. Paris has barred participation at Eurosatory, Euronaval and Le Bourget, while Madrid excluded Israel from May’s FEINDEF fair.
Author: Özgür Ekşi
