Finland maintains Israel defense ties as European restrictions grow

Helsinki, Sep 28 (UNI) Finland must maintain long-term defense cooperation with Israel, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen said Monday, as military ties with Isreal face growing criticism and restrictions in parts of Europe. In a statement issued by the Finnish Defense Ministry, Häkkänen said Israeli weapons systems acquired in recent years have become central to Finland's defense capabilities. He cited the David's Sling air-defense system, Gabriel 5 missiles and Spike anti-tank missiles. His comments come amid a broader European debate over military cooperation with Israel. Human rights organizations have called on governments to halt arms transfers to Israel, arguing that…