Egypt Daily News – Israel signed nearly $15 billion in defense contracts in 2024, marking its highest-ever annual total, the Israeli Defense Ministry announced Wednesday. This figure represents a 13% increase from 2023, which was also a record year.
The surge in deals comes despite mounting global criticism and growing diplomatic strain over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, now nearing its 20th month.
Over half of the contracts 54% were signed with European nations. Additional breakdowns include Asia-Pacific (23%), Abraham Accords countries (12%), North America (9%), Latin America (1%), and Africa (1%).
Missiles, rockets, and air defense systems accounted for nearly half of the agreements. Other major exports included armored vehicles, satellite and space systems, and cyber and intelligence technologies. More than half of the contracts exceeded $100 million in value.
Despite increasing diplomatic pressure, including halted trade talks with the U.K. and stepped-up criticism from allies like Canada and France, Israel’s defense exports remained robust. Some countries have moved to suspend deals; Spain, for instance, canceled a missile system contract involving an Israeli subsidiary.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant credited the record contracts to Israel’s battlefield performance, following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack, which killed 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages. “The world sees Israeli strength and seeks to be a partner in it,” he said.
The war in Gaza has led to widespread devastation and over 54,000 reported deaths, primarily women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid, only recently eased, has further strained relations with international partners.
