Israel to open embassy in Fiji, deepening Pacific ties

Israel is expected to open a resident embassy in Fiji this weekend, a move that will deepen diplomatic, strategic, and development ties as Jerusalem expands its Pacific presence. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar is heading to the island nation for the inauguration.

The establishment of the Suva mission follows Fiji’s decision last year to open its embassy in Jerusalem, placing the Pacific nation among a select group of countries with diplomatic representation in Israel's capital. Israel announced its intention to establish a reciprocal mission in Fiji in 2026, citing Suva's consistent support in international forums.

Fiji's Cabinet approved the establishment of the Israeli Embassy in March, viewing it as a step toward expanded cooperation in security, climate change, agriculture, emerging technologies, and diplomatic engagement. The two countries, which established diplomatic relations in 1970, have a history of cooperation through Israeli development programs.

The new embassy is expected to provide Israel with a more permanent diplomatic foothold in the Blue Pacific, a region attracting attention from global powers. For Fiji, the relationship with Israel is framed as part of a broader foreign policy that balances traditional alliances with Pacific priorities and engagement beyond the region. The opening comes amid political sensitivity, as Fiji's decision to open an embassy in Jerusalem drew criticism from Palestinian officials and some local opponents.