LONDON, Aug 29 (Reuters) - Britain has barred Israeli

officials from its biggest defence trade show over its

escalation of the war against Hamas in Gaza, its latest effort

to pressure a historically close ally over the conflict.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government said in July it

would recognise a Palestinian state unless Israel took steps to

relieve suffering in the enclave and met other conditions,

enraging the Israeli government.

Israel's Ministry of Defence said that as a result of the

trade fair ban it would not run its national pavilion as it has

done previously at London's Defence & Security Equipment

International (DSEI) event.

Israeli defence companies, such as Elbit Systems,

Rafael, IAI and Uvision, will still be able to attend.

Britain's move had echoes of a dispute at the Paris Air Show

three months ago, when France blocked off with black partitions

the stands of Israeli defence companies after they refused to

remove attack weapons from display, sparking a furious response

from Israel.

A British government spokesperson said on Friday that the

Israeli government's decision to further escalate its military

operation in Gaza was wrong.

"As a result, we can confirm that no Israeli government

delegation will be invited to attend DSEI UK 2025."

"There must be a diplomatic solution to end this war now,

with an immediate ceasefire, the return of the hostages and a

surge in humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza," the

spokesperson added.

Israel said Britain's decision was a "regrettable act of

discrimination" and "introduces political considerations wholly

inappropriate for a professional defence industry exhibition".

The four-day show, due to open on September 9, features

national delegations and private companies, who showcase

military kit and weapons at London's Excel centre. The event

takes place every other year.

DSEI is organised by a private company, Clarion Defence and

Security, but with backing from the British government and the

military.