Incoming Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša has moved to reset his nation’s diplomatic relationship with Israel, beginning with the removal of the PLO flag from the government building. The action occurred 20 minutes after a parliamentary vote of confidence, marking a shift from the policies of his predecessor, Robert Golub, according to reporting from Israel Hayom on June 28, 2026.
How is the new government shifting policy?
Janša is pursuing a policy of alignment with Israel, citing the country as a “strategic partner” in regional stability and counter-terrorism efforts. According to the Israel Hayom report, the incoming administration plans to freeze the previous government’s recognition of a Palestinian state, which Janša described as a violation of Slovenian law. Beyond domestic policy, the prime minister intends to relocate the Slovenian embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Janša characterized his predecessors in office as “crazy” and noted that the prior government had even blocked an Israir aircraft from landing in the country.
Why does this change matter for European relations?
The shift represents a departure from the recent diplomatic tensions between Ljubljana and Jerusalem. Janša, 67, stated that he plans to strengthen a pro-Israel bloc in Brussels to oppose potential sanctions against Israel, arguing that such measures are intended for adversaries rather than allies. He frames Israel as a model for technological innovation and national security, suggesting that European nations share fundamental democratic values with the country. This approach contrasts with the previous administration, which Janša claims dragged relations to an “all-time low.”
What could happen next in bilateral ties?
The incoming government is expected to prioritize the normalization of travel and investment between the two nations. Janša has signaled an intent to encourage Israelis to visit and invest in Slovenia, moving to reverse the hostility that characterized the end of the Golub government’s tenure. While the immediate focus remains on domestic legal reversals and embassy relocation, the administration’s stated goal is to increase cooperation across sectors including scientific research and crisis management.
