Slovenian Officials Express Support for Israeli Sovereignty in West Bank

Ahead of the reopening of Israel's embassy in Slovenia, a delegation led by Israeli Foreign Minister G Gideon Saar met with top Slovenian government officials. The delegation included Yossi Dagan, head of the Shomron Regional Council, who held meetings with Slovenian Defense Minister Matej Tonin and Agriculture Minister Jože Podgoršek. Both ministers expressed solidarity with the Shomron region and officially supported Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank).

Dagan also met with Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Jernej Vrtovec. Vrtovec, who wore a Shomron pin, also declared his government's support for Israeli sovereignty in the West Bank. During these meetings, Dagan emphasized the strategic importance of Judea and Samaria for Israel's security and that of the Western world, discussing security threats from a potential 'terror state' in the region and the diplomatic struggle against sanctions on settlements.

Slovenian Defense Minister Tonin stated, "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." Agriculture Minister Podgoršek 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, a long-time friend of Prime Minister Janša, has worked to present the reality in Judea and Samaria and counter moves against settlements. The meetings occurred amidst internal Slovenian political debate regarding the country's policy towards Israel, with President Nataša Pirc Musar recently clashing with the government's stance.

Prime Minister Janša has pursued an independent policy from the EU regarding Israel, notably vetoing an EU statement on the E1 construction plan. The Israeli embassy in Slovenia is set to reopen today, marking a renewal of warm relations, with Dagan expected to attend the ceremony. Dagan praised Foreign Minister Saar's efforts in promoting Israel's narrative and combating delegitimization.