By Rachel Avraham
It was recently reported that Israel decided to cancel its participation next week in a major UAE defense exposition, citing COVID-19 travel restrictions. This comes despite the fact that dozens of Israeli defense companies were scheduled to appear in the UAE defense exposition, set to take place between February 21 and 25.
Following this development, MK Ayoob Kara proclaimed: “After turning to various officials in the government and other partners who worked hard for the sake of the economic peace agreements with the Gulf states, it is inconceivable that the Exceptions Committee barred the Israeli Defense Ministry from going out and participating in the Defense Industry Conference.”
“This is a serious blow to the Sons of Abraham Alliance and a major setback, especially since over the past few days before the exhibition, meetings had already been scheduled with senior level officials in the Persian Gulf countries,” he emphasized. “In addition, the defense industries have already invested millions of shekels in the exhibition.”
“Making such a decision severely damages Israel’s image vis-à-vis countries that we have waited a long time to unite with us against Iran and the terror organizations,” MK Kara noted. “The decision is especially puzzling given that everyone leaving for it was vaccinated. In addition, the Emirates are extremely strict about social distancing and are doing everything to take care of the corona.”
“Considering the changes that have taken place in recent days and the intention to open the country up and return to our routines, it is very important to discuss this important issue and make a positive decision,” MK Kara concluded. “I ask you, Mr. Prime Minister, please make sure that you rethink the departure of the representatives of the defense industries to the exhibition immediately.”
