An Israeli arms manufacturer's facility in Bristol repeatedly targeted by Palestine Action has unexpectedly closed, with the site now deserted except for a security guard.
The Elbit Systems UK site in the Aztec West business park was subject to dozens of protests, including a blockade on 1 July, days before the direct action group was proscribed under the Terrorism Act. The lease, held since 2019, was not due to expire until 2029.
Elbit Systems UK is a subsidiary of Israel's largest arms producer, with revenues of $6.8bn last year. Its systems are used extensively in Israel's assault on Gaza, including drone fleets described as the 'backbone' of the IDF. The company made an operating loss of £4.7m in 2024, compared to a £3.8m profit in 2023.
The closure follows previous Elbit UK site sales after protests, including Elite KL in the West Midlands and Ferranti P&C in Oldham. Meanwhile, Elbit Systems UK is part of a consortium close to winning a £2bn MoD contract, prompting objections from former minister Peter Hain.
Palestine Action has secured a judicial review of the proscription decision, though the Home Secretary is challenging it in court.
