SLOVENIA TO DECLARE ISRAELI MINISTERS PERSONA NON GRATA OVER GAZA SITUATION
Slovenia has made a bold diplomatic move by declaring two Israeli ministers — National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich — persona non grata, a formal declaration that they are unwelcome in the country. This significant action was announced on July 17, 2025, as a direct response to their inflammatory rhetoric and support for hardline policies amid the ongoing Israeli military campaign in Gaza.
Slovenia’s Foreign Minister, Tanja Fajon, stated that the decision followed “unacceptable and extremist remarks” made by the ministers, which have been viewed by many in the international community as inciting violence against Palestinians. Both Ben-Gvir and Smotrich have long been associated with far-right ideologies and controversial statements. Smotrich has advocated the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and previously suggested the destruction of Palestinian villages. Ben-Gvir, on the other hand, has a history of praise for individuals convicted of anti-Palestinian violence and is known for promoting a highly nationalistic agenda.
The move by Slovenia comes as frustration grows across Europe over Israel’s continued military operations in Gaza, which have caused heavy civilian casualties. The current conflict, ongoing since October 2023, has claimed over 58,000 Palestinian lives, according to local health officials. While many European countries have called for a ceasefire, the EU has struggled to take collective action, with some member states, notably Hungary, blocking stronger measures against Israel.
By acting independently, Slovenia has become the first EU member state to take such a decisive step. This move aligns Slovenia with countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK, which have imposed similar travel and diplomatic restrictions on the same Israeli ministers in recent months.
Foreign Minister Fajon emphasized that Slovenia’s stance is not against the Israeli people but targeted specifically at individuals promoting policies and language that threaten peace and human rights. She called the measure “a moral imperative” in the face of rising civilian suffering and international legal concerns. Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob added that the nation supports peace and dialogue but cannot remain silent in the face of incitement and extremism.
The decision has sparked reactions on both sides. Pro-Palestinian groups have applauded Slovenia’s principled stand, while Israeli officials have condemned it as interference in their internal politics. The Israeli Foreign Ministry described the action as “hostile and unfounded,” warning it could damage bilateral relations.
Slovenia’s action also follows its recent recognition of Palestinian statehood, alongside Ireland and Spain, further emphasizing its commitment to a two-state solution and international legal norms. The move could inspire similar steps by other European nations, especially if EU-level action continues to be stalled by internal divisions.
In conclusion, Slovenia’s declaration against Israeli ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich is a significant diplomatic gesture reflecting mounting European concern over Israel’s Gaza offensive and extremist rhetoric. It underscores the widening gap between EU values on human rights and the conduct of some Israeli officials, and may serve as a catalyst for broader international accountability.