Alert 05.15.26
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.
Representative Experience
- Represented Techpoint in its $390 million acquisition by ASMedia Technology, advising on CFIUS compliance, preparing a joint voluntary notice and securing clearance.
- Represented an American space launch company on CFIUS matters, including successfully obtaining CFIUS approval in connection with the direct investment in our client's company by a private Japanese entity.
- Represented a Norwegian fabless technology company on CFIUS matters in connection with multiple U.S. acquisitions.
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- Advised a U.S.-based company through the rare and complex challenge of an invalidated facility clearance due to security compliance issues, developing a strategic response that ultimately secured re-validation of the clearance through coordinated engagement with DCSA.
- Advises construction and consulting services company on new facility clearance process.
- Advised an American multinational energy corporation with all aspects of licensing and compliance and engaging with OFAC and the State Department in connection with the modified wind down of operations under the current general license. Our advice is in light of the company being the only U.S. company permitted to continue operations in Venezuela with its joint venture partner PDVSA.
- Counseled aircraft manufacturers, aircraft lessors and airlines on compliance with Russia-related sanctions programs.
- Represented a global leader in design and production of military vehicles and mobility systems, on ITAR and EAR export controls, the overlap of ITAR and DCSA industrial security program rules, sanctions and trade compliance matters.
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.
Education
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J.D., The George Washington University Law School, 2022
B.A., The George Washington University, 2012
cum laude
Admissions
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District of Columbia
Languages
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French
Hebrew