Arielle Heffez | Lawyer

Arielle Heffez focuses her practice on international trade and national security matters, including export controls, sanctions, foreign ownership, control, or influence (FOCI) mitigation related to facility security clearances, CFIUS and foreign investment, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and global anti-corruption, and other regulatory and public policy issues.

In guiding clients, Arielle draws upon her background in crisis communications, international strategy and national security. She has held a variety of positions in Israel’s public sector, including with the Israel Ministry of Defense and Embassy of Israel to the United States, and in Israel’s wider defense industry.

Education

J.D., The George Washington University Law School, 2022

B.A., The George Washington University, 2012
cum laude

Admissions

District of Columbia

Languages

French

Hebrew

Professional Highlights

Prior to her legal career, Arielle served in a number of capacities within the Israel Ministry of Defense in Tel Aviv, including in the Policy and Politico-Military Bureau, where her work focused on defense policy.
Arielle completed her military service in the Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson’s Unit and remains an active reservist. Prior to that, Arielle worked in the Embassy of Israel in Washington, DC.

Alert 05.13.25

847 Awaiting Takeoff: DCSA Issues Guidance on Expanded Scope of FOCI Assessments

Section 847, which will expand foreign ownership, control or influence requirements to non-classified contracts, is on track for implementation in 2026.