Slovenia Moves to Recognize Independent Palestinian State

“Today the government has decided to recognise Palestine as an independent and sovereign state,” Prime Minister Golob stated, marking a pivotal moment in Slovenia’s foreign policy.

However, this decision still requires approval from the European Union member country's parliament, which is set to vote on the motion on Tuesday. “The session is scheduled for Tuesday from 4 PM (14:00 GMT),” parliament speaker Urska Klakocar Zupancic confirmed at a press conference in Ljubljana.

The decision has drawn international attention and mixed reactions. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz expressed his hope that Slovenian lawmakers will reject the motion. “The Slovenian government’s decision to recommend that the Slovenian parliament recognise a Palestinian state rewards Hamas… I hope the Slovenian parliament rejects this recommendation,” Katz stated on X (formerly Twitter).

This move by Slovenia is part of a broader effort by several European countries to increase pressure on Israel to resolve the conflict in Gaza. Prime Minister Golob also called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the release of all hostages. “This is the message of peace,” Golob emphasized.

On May 28, Spain, Ireland, and Norway officially recognized a Palestinian state, prompting a strong reaction from Israel. Among the 27 members of the European Union, Sweden, Cyprus, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria have already recognized Palestine. Malta has indicated it may follow suit soon.

Meanwhile, Britain and Australia are considering recognition, although France has stated that now is not the time for such a decision.