Israel to Open First Embassy in Slovenia Following Government Change

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced that Israel will open its first embassy in Ljubljana, marking a new phase in diplomatic ties with Slovenia. Sa'ar said, “I am proud to announce that Israel will open its first embassy in Ljubljana,” but did not give a launch date.

The move follows the election of right‑wing Prime Minister Janez Janša, whose rise the minister said signals “a new chapter” after years of hostility under the previous Slovenian government. Slovenia recognised the State of Palestine in 2024 and, together with Ireland and Spain, recently asked the European Commission to review the EU‑Israel association agreement. Earlier this year the Slovenian cabinet had barred Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from entering the country and suspended arms trade amid the Gaza war.

Sa'ar emphasized that “when our friends return to power, Israel also returns,” underscoring the intention to strengthen bilateral relations.