Slovenian PM Golob Affirms Israeli Recognition of Palestine Essential for Gaza Peace

Prime Minister Golob's Latest Statement on Gaza Peace

On October 1, 2025, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob reiterated a firm stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, asserting that any peace plan for Gaza would be unviable unless it incorporated Israel's recognition of an independent Palestinian state. The statement, made during an interview with Slovenian Television and published by the Slovenian news agency, also saw Golob welcome an initiative by US President Donald Trump to halt the war in Gaza.

Slovenia's Recognition of Palestinian Statehood

This declaration follows Slovenia's significant diplomatic move on June 4, 2024, when its parliament overwhelmingly voted to recognize the State of Palestine. The vote, with 52 in favor and none against in the 90-seat parliament, positioned Slovenia as the fourth European country to recently take this step, following Spain, Norway, and Ireland. Prime Minister Golob described this decision as 'one of the most important and noble foreign policy actions in Slovenian history,' emphasizing its role as a 'strong political and symbolic step' towards a two-state solution. The process was expedited in response to Israel's actions in Rafah, which led to the displacement of over one million Palestinians.

Consistent Diplomatic Advocacy and Actions

Slovenia has maintained a proactive and critical stance regarding the conflict in the Middle East. Its foreign policy, underpinned by a commitment to international law and multilateral cooperation, consistently advocates for a two-state solution. Key actions and statements include:

• UN Votes: Slovenia, as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, has repeatedly voted in favor of resolutions supporting Palestine's full UN membership and calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
• Humanitarian Aid: The government has provided multiple packages of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian civilian population, with the latest approved in August 2025.
• Criticism of Israeli Policies: Slovenian officials, including President Nataša Pirc Musar, have been vocal in their criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, with the President describing the onslaught as a 'genocide'.
• Arms Embargo: In August 2025, Slovenia became the first EU country to impose an arms embargo on Israel, prohibiting the export and transit of military equipment.
• Persona Non Grata Declarations: In July 2025, Slovenia declared two Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, persona non grata, citing 'genocidal statements' against Palestinians.
• EU Pressure: In June 2025, Prime Minister Golob warned that Slovenia would act independently if the European Union failed to take concrete measures regarding Gaza.

The Path to a Two-State Solution

Prime Minister Golob's latest statement underscores Slovenia's conviction that the recognition of Palestinian statehood is not merely a symbolic gesture but a fundamental prerequisite for achieving lasting peace and security in the region. Slovenia's diplomatic efforts aim to encourage a political settlement where both Israelis and Palestinians can live side-by-side in peace and security.