Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša has announced a major shift in Slovenia’s foreign policy toward Israel, signaling plans to suspend the country’s recognition of the State of Palestine and relocate Slovenia’s embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
Just 20 minutes after receiving a parliamentary vote of confidence, the flag of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), which had flown above the Slovenian government building for the past two years, was removed.
In an exclusive interview with Israel Hayom, Janša said his government intends to completely transform Slovenia’s relationship with Israel, replacing what he described as years of hostility with a strong strategic partnership.
“Israel is a strategic partner because it contributes to regional stability and the fight against terrorism,” Janša said. “It is also a democratic partner that shares Europe’s core values of freedom and the rule of law.”
He praised Israel’s achievements in technological innovation, entrepreneurship, scientific research, crisis management, and national security, calling the country a model from which European nations can learn.
Janša also argued that both Slovenia and Israel face similar challenges, including terrorism, extremism, threats to national identity, and growing geopolitical pressures.
Looking ahead, the Slovenian prime minister said he will work in Brussels to strengthen the pro-Israel bloc within the European Union and oppose any efforts to impose sanctions on Israel, arguing that sanctions are intended for adversaries of the West—not democratic allies.
Janša, a frequent visitor to Israel, reaffirmed his support for the country, recalling his visit shortly after the October 7 attacks to express solidarity.
He also criticized the previous Slovenian government under Robert Golob, claiming it recognized the State of Palestine in violation of Slovenian law.
“The previous left-wing government recognized the Palestinian state contrary to Slovenian law,” Janša said. “We will respect the law and suspend that illegal decision. This was one of our coalition conditions, and all partners agreed.”
According to Janša, his government also aims to encourage Israeli tourism and investment in Slovenia, expressing confidence that relations between Jerusalem and Ljubljana are entering what he described as a “golden era.”
