Hundreds of protesters will gather in London this week. They oppose the presence of fifty-one Israeli arms companies. These firms are exhibiting at the DSEI arms fair. Consequently, significant demonstrations are expected. The event takes place in London’s Docklands. Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT) is leading the criticism. They accuse the UK government of “peak complicity in genocide.”
Therefore, three major Israeli contractors will attend. These include Elbit Systems, Rafael, and Israel Aerospace Industries. The UK recently barred an Israeli government delegation. However, it allowed these commercial firms to exhibit. CAAT’s media coordinator, Emily Apple, strongly condemned this decision. She said it lets companies market “genocide-tested weapons.”
Moreover, protest numbers could reach one thousand. Organizers report unprecedented interest. This is the first DSEI since Hamas’s October 2023 attack. Therefore, security will be extremely tight. The Metropolitan Police spent nearly £2 million last time. They made ten arrests during the 2023 event.
US defense giant Lockheed Martin will also exhibit. They produce the F-35 fighter jet used in Gaza. The UK halted most arms exports to Israel. However, it allows components for the F-35 program. UK companies supply these parts. Estimates show £572 million in sales since 2016. BAE Systems is a key supplier.
Meanwhile, the government is promoting its new industrial strategy. Defence Secretary John Healey will give a keynote speech. He plans to increase military spending. A new £250 million fund will boost defense sectors. Additionally, £182 million will establish technical colleges. Healey calls defense an “engine for growth.”
Protesters argue this prioritizes profit over human rights. They highlight the ongoing assault on Gaza City. Hundreds of thousands of civilians are sheltering there. The situation creates a stark contrast. The government promotes arms industry jobs. Activists decry the humanitarian cost.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis demands attention from the international community. The ongoing humanitarian crisis demands attention in all policy decisions. Allowing these exhibitors, critics say, ignores this reality. The ongoing humanitarian crisis demands attention and moral accountability.
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