Finland Extends Defence Cooperation Deal With Israel Until 2034 Amid Opposition Criticism
Finland’s opposition Green League has strongly criticised the reported extension of the country’s defence cooperation agreement with Israel until 2034.
Green League leader Sofia Virta described the government’s decision as a “historic shame”, arguing that Helsinki should be increasing pressure on Israel rather than deepening defence ties amid ongoing regional conflicts.
Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen defended the agreement, saying it is part of Finland’s wider network of defence cooperation deals with around 40 countries.
The memorandum was originally signed in 2013. Finnish authorities reportedly proposed extending it until 2034 in early 2024, with the renewal recently completed without a public announcement of the exact date.
