The Slovenian government has approved recognising an independent Palestinian state, announced Prime Minister Robert Golob during a news conference in Ljubljana.
This decision aligns Slovenia with countries like Ireland, Spain, and Norway, which have already extended recognition to Palestine.
However, for the government’s decision to take effect, it must also receive approval from the parliament of the European Union member state, which is expected to vote on the matter next Tuesday.
This move is part of a broader international effort to pressure Israel into resolving the conflict in Gaza.
Prime Minister Golob emphasized the importance of ending hostilities between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and urged for the release of all hostages as a gesture of peace.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed opposition to Slovenia’s potential recognition of Palestine, warning that it would only serve as a “reward” for Hamas.
He urged Slovenian politicians to reject the recommendation.
In a symbolic gesture, the Slovenian government raised the Palestinian flag alongside its own national flag and the flag of the European Union in front of its building in central Ljubljana.
This decision by Slovenia follows similar moves by Ireland, Spain, and Norway, which drew strong objections from Israel.
Among EU members, several countries, including Sweden, Cyprus, and Hungary, have already recognised a Palestinian state, while others, like Malta, are considering doing so.
France, while acknowledging the prospect of recognition for Palestine, has emphasized the need for necessary reforms within the Palestinian Authority before formal recognition can be extended.
Germany and the United States have rejected unilateral approaches, advocating for a two-state solution achieved through dialogue.
Denmark’s parliament recently voted against recognizing a Palestinian state.
Norway, previously aligned with the US position, has shifted its stance, expressing doubt about the effectiveness of the current strategy. The country chairs the international donor group to the Palestinians.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated since a cross-border attack by militants in October, resulting in casualties and the capture of hostages. The situation has drawn international attention and calls for a peaceful resolution.
Gaza health authorities report significant civilian casualties due to the conflict, heightening concerns about the humanitarian impact of the violence.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community remains focused on finding a sustainable solution to the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The recognition of Palestine by Slovenia adds another dimension to the ongoing debate over the region’s future and underscores the complexities of the situation.
Norway, currently chairing the international donor group for Palestinians, had previously aligned with the US stance but has now shifted its position, citing doubts about the effectiveness of this approach.
In response to a cross-border assault by militants on October 7, Israel has been engaged in conflict with Hamas, the governing authority in Gaza. Israeli reports indicate approximately 1,200 fatalities and over 250 individuals taken captive during the assault, with nearly 130 still held in Gaza.
According to Gaza health authorities, the ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of more than 36,000 Palestinians, with civilians comprising the majority of casualties, over the past seven months.
