Qatar Blocks Iron Dome Production Deal in Germany, Affecting Israeli Defense Exports

Qatar's sovereign wealth fund has vetoed a major deal between Israeli defense company Rafael and German automaker Volkswagen to produce Iron Dome battery components in Germany. The agreement, which would have preserved thousands of German jobs amid Volkswagen's struggles with Chinese competition and electric vehicle transitions, was blocked because the manufacturing partner is Israeli. Qatar holds 17% voting rights in Volkswagen and has used its financial influence to prevent Israeli defense production in Germany, despite its prior financial support for Hamas.

This development is part of broader tensions involving Qatar's investments in German companies. Another significant transaction, the $4.2 billion acquisition of Israeli shipping company ZIM by German shipping giant Hapag-Lloyd, is also reportedly at risk. Qatar owns 12.3% of Hapag-Lloyd, while Saudi Arabia holds 10.2%. Israeli security officials have expressed concerns that transferring control of ZIM to foreign hands could jeopardize a strategic national asset.

Separately, the article highlights changes on the popular Chinese e-commerce platform AliExpress for Israeli customers. Starting soon, AliExpress will collect VAT at checkout for packages over $75, similar to Amazon's policy, to avoid customs delays. Customers will also be able to select closer pickup points for their deliveries. Shipping costs are expected to decrease by late July, with a major sale planned for August. Despite regional conflicts and flight cancellations, AliExpress shipments from China typically arrive in Israel within 7 to 10 days.

Additional news includes a health incident where a 15-year-old girl was hospitalized after consuming potato chips containing hard, glass-like pieces, later identified by the manufacturer Strauss as hardened starch. Strauss is personally assisting the customer. Also noted is the Israeli Tax Authority's disbursement of 260 million shekels in negative income tax grants to 130,000 eligible citizens, including parents and seniors meeting income criteria.

Finally, the iconic Tel Aviv restaurant Coffee Bar, closed in August 2023 due to urban renewal, is set to reopen in March 2027 at the new Phoenix campus in Rishon LeZion. The new food complex will include additional eateries and a museum showcasing Israeli art, aiming to become a local dining and entertainment hub.