Slovenian Defense Minister Voices Support for Israeli Sovereignty in West Bank

Slovenia's new defense minister, Valentin Haidinjak, has expressed support for Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank during a meeting with Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council. The meeting took place ahead of the reopening of Israel's embassy in Slovenia, an event spearheaded by Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi. Dagan also met with Slovenia's Minister of Agriculture, Janes Cigler Kralj, who also voiced support for Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank and solidarity with its residents.

Dagan presented his position on the strategic importance of the West Bank for Israel and the Western world's security, discussing opposition to a Palestinian state and efforts to counter sanctions against settlements. He also met with Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Energy, Jernej Vrtovec, who wore a Samaria pin and affirmed his government's support for Israeli sovereignty in the region, particularly in light of Britain's sanctions on the West Bank.

Minister Haidinjak stated, "I wish you the best. Slovenia and Israel were partners. We cooperated in the past and I believe we will continue to do so in the future. I also want to support sovereignty in Judea and Samaria." Minister Cigler Kralj added, "You are a true fighter for Israel and Europe. I express solidarity and support for Judea and Samaria and sovereignty, in this important region of yours, we will work together for the security of Slovenia and Israel."

Dagan has maintained contact with Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša for years, working on issues concerning the West Bank and Israeli policy. This engagement occurs amidst internal Slovenian political debate regarding relations with Israel, with President Nataša Pirc Musar recently clashing with the government's stance. Prime Minister Janša's government previously vetoed an EU statement on settlement construction in the E1 area, preventing it from becoming a unified EU position.

Dagan is scheduled to attend the embassy reopening ceremony. He emphasized that the West Bank serves as a "protective shield" for Israel and the Western world, warning against the establishment of a "terror state" and the need to resist boycott attempts. He praised Foreign Minister Ashkenazi's efforts in promoting Israel's narrative and combating delegitimization.