Ljubljana: Slovenia on Thursday announced that it is banning Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from entering the country, emphasizing its commitment to upholding international law.
According to Foreign Ministry official Neva Grasic, cited by the STA news agency, the decision follows an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against Netanyahu.
The EU nation of roughly two million people, which recognized a Palestinian state last year, has been a vocal critic of Israeli actions in Gaza. Thursday’s move against Netanyahu highlights Slovenia’s stance on the matter.
Previously, Slovenia had barred Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from entering the country and imposed an arms embargo on Israel.
Grasic stated, “All countries bound by the International Court, including Slovenia, must not recognize the situation resulting from Israel’s illegal presence in the occupied Palestinian territory, nor offer support in maintaining it.”
The Slovenian government added on X that the decision “sends a clear message to the State of Israel that Slovenia expects consistent respect for international court rulings and international humanitarian law.” By taking this step, Slovenia “confirms its commitment to international law, universal human rights values, and a principled, consistent foreign policy.”
