Slovenia blocks EU statement on Israeli settlements, sparking criticism

Slovenia's government has come under fire after reportedly blocking a joint European Union statement that would have condemned Israeli plans to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank. The move has prompted sharp criticism from President Nataša Pirc Musar and several opposition parties, who accuse the government of deviating from established Slovenian and EU policy.

According to EUobserver, Slovenia's blockage occurred last week, preventing the EU's 27 member states from issuing a unified condemnation of the settlement expansion. The Foreign Ministry confirmed that, after consultations, Slovenia did not support the proposed joint declaration. However, the ministry stated that Slovenia's position remains unchanged, emphasizing support for international law and a two-state solution that considers the legitimate interests of both parties.

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When these principles are violated, Slovenia must be among the countries that clearly defend them.

President Pirc Musar strongly disagreed with the government's decision, asserting that Slovenia should support such EU statements. Her office stated that the principles for assessing violations of international law apply equally to all countries. The expansion of Israeli settlements, she argued, contravenes international law, undermines the two-state solution, and diminishes the chances for lasting peace. Pirc Musar stressed that international law is not a matter of political choice and should be applied without double standards, especially given Slovenia's own historical experience with sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Opposition parties, including the Social Democrats (SD), also reacted strongly. The SD warned that the government's decision aids Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies, which they claim displace and segregate Palestinians, further hindering the two-state solution and delaying peace. They pointed to Slovenia's clear stance following the International Court of Justice's decision in 2024, highlighting a perceived shift in the current government's approach.

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Such a turn of events cannot be resolved with silence.