Finland must maintain long-term defense cooperation with Israel, Finnish Defense Minister Antti H kk nen said Monday, as military ties with Isreal face growing criticism and restrictions in parts of Europe.
In a statement issued by the Finnish Defense Ministry, H kk nen said Israeli weapons systems acquired in recent years have become central to Finland’s defense capabilities. He cited the David’s Sling air-defense system, Gabriel 5 missiles and Spike anti-tank missiles.
His comments come amid a broader European debate over military cooperation with Israel.
Human rights organizations have called on governments to halt arms transfers to Israel, arguing that continued supplies could contribute to violations of international law in Gaza. Spain has tightened restrictions on arms trade with Israel, while Italy suspended the automatic renewal of a defense cooperation agreement earlier this year.
Human Rights Council resolution urges arms embargo on Israel adopted a resolution on April 5, 2024, demanding a halt to all arms sales and transfers to Israel.In a resolution adopted by 28 votes in favour, six against and 13 abstentions, the 47-member Human Rights Council backed a call “to cease the sale, transfer and diversion of arms, munitions and other military equipment to Israel, the occupying Power to prevent further violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights”.
H kk nen said Finland’s purchases also create a long-term relationship with Israeli defense companies because the systems require spare parts, software updates, training and technical support.”This fact binds us to cooperation with Israel, whether we like it or not,” he said.
