Elbit Systems

Elbit Systems is an Israeli defense company that manufactures a range of military and security technologies. It has a presence in the UK, where it has become a target of protests and direct action by Palestine Action, a pro-Palestinian activist group. Elbit Systems is newsworthy because of the actions taken against it by Palestine Action, including break-ins at its UK facilities. These actions have led to arrests and trials of activists, some of whom have engaged in hunger strikes to protest their imprisonment and what they see as the UK's support for Israel's actions in Gaza. Recently, several Palestine Action activists have been on prolonged hunger strikes, raising concerns about their health and prompting solidarity from writers and scholars. One activist ended their strike due to failing health, while others continue. A subsidiary of Elbit Systems was also reportedly denied a UK government contract, which was cited as a reason for activists ending their hunger strike. The activists' actions and the legal responses highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the UK's relationship with Israel and the arms trade.