Israel opened its first embassy in Slovenia, deepening ties with the European Union nation as relations with some long-time allies deteriorate over Israel’s settlement policy in the occupied West Bank.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar travelled to Ljubljana yesterday for the opening, calling it a historic day. Slovenian Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer said the embassy should usher in greater dialogue and cooperation. Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the embassy, demanding its closure.
The opening came a day after Britain banned trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank, while France and Canada announced similar measures. Israel condemned the moves and said it would close the British consulate in Jerusalem.
Slovenia’s previous center-left government recognised a Palestinian state in 2024 and imposed sanctions on Israel in 2025, including an import ban on settlement goods, an arms embargo and entry bans on senior Israeli officials.
