Slovenia lifts sanctions on Israeli officials

Slovenia's new government has shifted its direction in relations with Israel.

The new government, led by pro-Israel Prime Minister Janez Jansa, has lifted the entry bans that had been imposed on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich.

The government also ended the ban on imports from Jewish settlements in the West Bank, as well as a short-term embargo on arms trade and transit with Israel.

In a government statement, it was noted, "Through political dialogue and quiet diplomacy, it will be possible to strengthen Slovenia's role in efforts toward lasting peace in the Middle East.

Today's decision reflects the belief that Slovenia can more effectively pursue its interests, values, and foreign policy goals through dialogue and active cooperation rather than through steps that close off direct communication channels."

The Jansa government had removed the Palestinian flag from the government building approximately 20 minutes after its swearing-in ceremony last week.