Finland quietly extends defense ties with Israel, sparking backlash from left

Finland and Israel have quietly extended their bilateral defense agreement for a decade, according to local media.The deal, signed without a public announcement from the Nordic nation’s defense ministry, triggered fierce backlash from the country’s left-wing opposition.Under the pact, was first signed in 2013 and again 2019, each time for five years, the two countries cooperate in the research, development and procurement of military products.Left-wing opposition called the deal a “historic shame.”“When we demanded pressure on Israel, the government tightened cooperation,” said Green League chair Sofia Virta, according to Helsinki Times.“The silence does not surprise me, because the chosen line is intolerably shameful,” chair of the Left Alliance Minja Koskela said.But Finland’s Defense Minister called the pact standard practice between countries with established defense ties.“We have cooperation documents with 40 countries, and Israel has long been one of them,” said Antti Häkkänen, according to Finnish public broadcaster Yle.“It is not a dramatic new policy.”“At this stage, we have only made sure that Finland gets the best air defense system in the world, and the best technology related to it.“The two countries began laying the groundwork to renew the agreement in 2024, when the previous deal was set to expire.

The new memorandum runs until 2034.Finland and Israel have a relationship based on “common values” and “shared interests,” according to a copy of memorandum obtained by Yle.“During the last years it has increased and developed into a unique partnership,” it said.Under the deal, the two countries have also established a joint coordination group that meets at least once a year.There are reportedly 23 projects currently between the Finns and the Israeli arms industry....