Slovenia lifts ban on arms trade with Israel

Slovenia's government has revoked a 2025 decision that banned the export and transit of weapons and military equipment to Israel, along with most arms imports from the country. The Defense Ministry announced Thursday that the ban, initially introduced in July, is no longer required because arms trade is already governed by existing national and European Union regulations.

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the arms trade is already governed by national law and European Union rules.

The ministry further stated that current legislation adequately defines licensing procedures and controls. Thursday's decision also conforms to the EU Common Position on arms export controls. The original 2025 measure had prohibited military goods exports, transit to Israel, and imports from Israel, with an exemption for equipment essential to Slovenia's security.

This policy reversal occurs under the new center-right government led by Prime Minister Janez Jansa, who assumed office in June following a political deadlock. Jansa's government has signaled a significant shift in Slovenia's relationship with Israel. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar hailed Jansa's election as "a new chapter in relations between Israel and Slovenia," announcing the approval of an Israeli embassy in Slovenia for the first time.

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a new chapter in relations between Israel and Slovenia

Jansa, a vocal supporter of Israel, has previously condemned Slovenia's recognition of Palestine as a state and affirmed Israel's right to self-defense. His government's actions contrast sharply with the policies of former Prime Minister Robert Golob's administration, which had been seen as hostile towards Israel. Under Golob, Slovenia recognized a Palestinian state, imposed sanctions on Israeli officials, enacted a travel ban on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and boycotted the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel's participation.

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Israel has the unequivocal right to defend itself against Hamas’s attacks. We stand with Israel.