Slovenia Imposes Arms Embargo on Israel, Citing Gaza Conflict
Slovenia has imposed an arms embargo on Israel, banning the export, import, and transit of weapons to and from the country.
This decision was announced by Prime Minister Robert Golob following a government session on July 31, 2025.
Slovenia claims to be the first European Union member to take such a step, citing the EU’s inability to act due to internal disagreements.
The government stated that no permits for military exports to Israel have been issued since October 2023, when the conflict in Gaza began.
Officials emphasized that the embargo is an independent measure to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Slovenia has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and increased aid deliveries to the region.
In early July 2025, Slovenia declared two Israeli ministers, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, persona non grata, barring them from entry.
This action was based on their public statements regarding the conflict. Earlier, in June 2024, Slovenia recognized Palestinian statehood, joining countries like Ireland, Norway, and Spain in this move.
The conflict in Gaza started after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israeli territory, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and the taking of hostages.
Israel responded with a military operation aimed at dismantling Hamas infrastructure. Reports from Gaza’s health ministry indicate significant casualties, with ongoing international efforts to negotiate truces and provide aid.
Several other nations have taken similar diplomatic steps, including France, Britain, and Canada announcing potential recognition of a Palestinian state. Australia has also indicated that recognizing Palestinian statehood is under consideration.
Israel has criticized these declarations, arguing they could reward Hamas for its actions.
Israeli officials dismissed Slovenia’s embargo as insignificant, noting that Israel does not procure any defense materials from Slovenia.
An unnamed official stated that the country buys nothing from Slovenia, not even minor items.
Within the EU, there is growing pressure for measures against Israel, with Sweden and the Netherlands advocating for suspending parts of the EU-Israel Association Agreement.
The European Commission has proposed limiting Israel’s participation in the Horizon research program, though Germany opposes such steps.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed concerns about Israel’s potential diplomatic isolation during a visit to Jerusalem.
The United States remains a key ally to Israel, with President Donald Trump warning that recognizing Palestinian statehood might benefit Hamas.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff recently met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to advance Gaza truce talks. These efforts aim to address the humanitarian crisis and secure a ceasefire.
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