Thousands of people protested in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on Wednesday against the opening of Israel’s first embassy in the country. The protests coincided with Prime Minister Janez Jansa's diplomatic shift towards Israel, which contrasts with the previous administration led by Robert Golob, who characterized Israel's actions in Gaza as a 'genocide'. Protesters carried banners with messages such as 'We stand together for peace and Palestine' and 'Genocide is not self-defence'.
Urska Breznik, a 48-year-old art historian, criticized the Jansa administration, labeling it a 'collaboration' government. Another protester, Melina Sahernik, expressed concern about Slovenia's international image. A poll by the daily newspaper Delo in June indicated that 56% of Slovenians opposed closer ties with Israel, while only 14% supported them.
Political analyst Andraz Zorko stated that the government's policy does not reflect the majority opinion in Slovenia, which he believes is either against Israel or neutral. The liberal Freedom Movement, led by former Prime Minister Golob, and the Left party proposed an impeachment of Jansa, arguing that his foreign policy favors Israel. They also sought the removal of Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer, describing the embassy opening as a 'return of the favour' for Israel's support during the March elections.
Under Golob, Slovenia recognized a Palestinian state and imposed an arms embargo on Israel, as well as restrictions on imports from illegal Israeli settlements. Jansa's government reversed these measures upon taking office, including the removal of the Palestinian flag from government buildings.
At the embassy inauguration, Foreign Minister Kajzer stated that the event should lead to 'greater dialogue, stronger cooperation, and more tangible results for the benefit of our people.' Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who attended the event, called it a 'historic day' and expressed gratitude towards the Slovenian government for its friendship.
The embassy opening occurred shortly after the UK banned trade with illegal Israeli settlements, with France and Canada indicating similar actions, reflecting a growing international discontent with Israel's policies. In response, Israel announced plans to close the UK consulate in Jerusalem.