London declines invitation to Israeli government representatives for weapons exhibition due to ongoing conflict in Gaza

In the bustling city of London, the Excel centre will play host to the DSEI UK 2025 arms fair on September 9-12. However, this year's event is shaping up to be more contentious than ever before.

The British government has barred Israeli government officials from attending the event, citing growing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In response, the Israeli ministry has decided to withdraw from the DSEI exhibition and will not establish a national pavilion.

The decision does not cover representatives of Israeli defence contractors, who will be allowed to attend. This move has been met with criticism from the Israeli Defense Ministry, which views the ban as based on politics and discriminatory.

Meanwhile, protests are expected to take place during the DSEI UK 2025. A coalition of more than 100 grassroots organisations and activist groups, including pro-Palestine, climate, anti-imperialist, and social justice groups, have announced plans to "Shut DSEI Down." Coordinated under the banner "Stop the Arms Fair," these groups aim to resist actions and mobilise around the event.

The British government's decision not to invite an Israeli government delegation follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer's announcement in July that he plans to recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel takes steps to end the crisis in Gaza, agrees to a ceasefire with Hamas, and commits to a long-term peace agreement.

On the international stage, Europe has been purchasing US weapons for Ukraine following a deadly Russian strike in Kyiv. Elsewhere, the Israeli Government has declared Gaza City a 'combat zone' and has reportedly returned the remains of two hostages.

Amidst these geopolitical events, Neil Young has released a new protest song, titled 'Big Crime,' targeting former U.S. President Donald Trump. In the United States, a federal appeals court has ruled that some of Trump's tariffs are illegal.

Finally, the newly updated plant hardiness zones map shows changes across most of Canada, which may impact the country's agriculture and horticulture industries.

As the DSEI UK 2025 approaches, London braces itself for a week of protests, diplomatic tensions, and global debate.

London declines invitation to Israeli government representatives for weapons exhibition due to ongoing conflict in Gaza