Slovenia's new government, led by Prime Minister Janez Jansa, announced on 11/6 that it has lifted an entry ban on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and two Israeli ministers. The government also confirmed it would resume arms sales to Israel, signaling a significant shift in bilateral relations.

The entry ban, imposed last year by former Prime Minister Robert Golob's administration, had targeted Prime Minister Netanyahu, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. This measure was a protest against Israel's campaign in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a press conference in Jerusalem in 5/2025. Photo: AFP

In addition to lifting the entry ban, Slovenia's government decided not to extend the arms embargo against Israel. This embargo, enacted in 7/2025, had prohibited the export and transit of weapons and military equipment to Israel. The government stated that the measure is no longer necessary as military equipment trade is regulated by national law and European Union (EU) export control criteria.

Prime Minister Jansa also lifted a ban on importing goods from Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Under Mr. Golob, Slovenia was the first EU member state to impose such an embargo against Israel.

"We will restore the conditions for normal political dialogue with Israel," Slovenia's new Prime Minister Janez Jansa's government announced.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar welcomed the Slovenian government's decisions as "swift and correct," praising Mr. Jansa as a "courageous leader and a true friend of Israel." Last week, Israel announced it would open an embassy in Slovenia, a move expected to usher in a new phase in bilateral relations.

Relations between the two countries significantly deteriorated under former Prime Minister Golob, who had condemned Israel's campaign in the Gaza Strip as "genocide." After taking office on 4/6, Prime Minister Jansa decided to reverse policy and normalize relations with Israel. The Palestinian flag, which had been flying on the Slovenian government building as a symbolic gesture to commemorate the 2024 decision to recognize the State of Palestine, was also removed.

Thanh Danh (According to AFP, Times of Israel)