Bristol Residents Protest Elbit Over Israeli Arms Exports (Bristol, United Kingdom)

Bristol residents gathered on December 14 to protest Elbit Systems’ facility in Filton, highlighting concerns over the company’s role in supplying military technology to Israel. The group, consisting of around 15 individuals, visited the Horizon facility, a research, development, and manufacturing hub for high technology solutions. The site was opened in July 2023 by Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely and local Tory MP Jack Lopresti. This marks the second Elbit Systems facility in Bristol, following another at 600 Aztec West, which had been blockaded by residents after Israel began bombing Gaza in October.

The residents emphasized Elbit’s status as Israel’s largest arms producer and its central role in arming the occupation. According to Defence News, the new facility showcased weapons such as the Torch-X command-and-control technology, E-Lynx radio system, and nv33 night vision goggles—equipment known to be used by the Israeli armed forces. The Bristol facility is thus likely contributing to the military technology and equipment being deployed against Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

The protest began around 8:30 am with the group standing outside the gates, displaying banners, flags, and using a sound system to play Palestinian music. Despite their small number, the demonstration effectively blocked traffic from entering the facility. Staff arriving later had to park outside and walk past the protest. Security guards remained near the gate without engaging the demonstrators. Police arrived after an hour but did not intervene directly, instead waiting on the pavement until the group left around 10:30 am.

The action was organized by local residents concerned about the genocide of Palestinians and the role of industries in enabling it. The group described itself as informal, with no formal structure or leaders. They emphasized that such actions are accessible and do not necessarily lead to arrest. The residents pledged to continue similar protests until arms dealers are removed from Bristol, inviting others to join their efforts.

The protest underscores growing local opposition to the international arms trade and its role in supporting conflict. Residents are calling for accountability and transparency in the supply chains that enable military actions against civilians. Their actions reflect a broader movement against the ethical and moral implications of arms exports, particularly in the context of ongoing violence in Palestine.

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