Slovenia is the first EU country to declare two Israeli far-right ministers personae non grataea

On 17 July, Slovenia’s government declared two Israeli far-right ministers, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, as personae non gratae due to their comments, which incite violence and violate Palestinian human rights. Slovenia is the first EU member state to take such action, reflecting its strong support for the Palestinian cause.

Previously, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Norway imposed sanctions on these ministers for inciting extremist violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon stated that the measures are intended to apply pressure on the Israeli government, particularly as “the situation in Gaza does not improve.”

As EU foreign ministers failed to reach an agreement on addressing human rights violations in Israel, Slovenia is seeking alliances with like-minded nations. The government criticised the ministers for their support of illegal Israeli settlements and incitement to violence against Palestinians, stating that their actions contradict the July 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on Israel’s policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Minister Fajon also expressed concerns regarding a recent EU-Israel agreement to increase humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza, highlighting the ongoing loss of life among Palestinians. She also expressed concern about Israel’s plans to displace the population to the Rafah area in the south of the enclave.

https://www.europeaninterest.eu/slovenia-is-the-first-eu-country-to-declare-two-israeli-far-right-ministers-personae-non-grataea/