Israeli Defense Firm's Belgian Facility Torched in Arson Attack

A Belgian subsidiary of Israel's state-owned defense contractor, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), was completely destroyed in an arson attack. The company, Belgian Advanced Technology Systems (BATS), located in an industrial park near Liège, had its structure burned to the ground. The incident occurred on a Monday night, with investigators believing the fire was deliberately set at three separate locations. No injuries were reported.

An anonymous group claimed responsibility for the attack, stating their motive was BATS' "100% ownership by the Israeli government." The group declared this reason sufficient to "burn it to ashes." This incident is seen as part of a pattern of attacks targeting Israeli defense companies in Europe.

BATS supplies radar systems and components, including to the Belgian military. The company has previously appeared on online lists of defense firms linked to Israel. Belgium's Defense Minister condemned the arson, attributing it to the radical left in Belgium, which he stated is becoming "more extreme every day." He specifically accused the radical left-wing Workers' Party of Belgium, though a party spokesperson denied any involvement.

The investigation into the arson attack is ongoing. The article notes that BATS has been targeted in online lists of defense companies with Israeli ties in recent years.