LJUBLJANA, Slovenia — July 17, 2025 — In a move that marks a diplomatic turning point within the European Union, Slovenia on Thursday declared two far-right Israeli ministers—Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich—persona non grata, banning them from entering the country over what officials called “genocidal statements” and incitement to extreme violence against Palestinians, reported by The Daily Hurriyet News.
The Slovenian government’s decision is the first of its kind within the EU and follows growing international condemnation of both ministers, key figures in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition. National Security Minister Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Smotrich have long drawn criticism for their incendiary rhetoric and policies toward Palestinians, particularly in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.
Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon said the ban sends “a strong moral message” and underscores Slovenia’s commitment to human rights. “This is the first measure of this nature in the EU,” she noted.
Slovenia joins a chorus of Western democracies taking action. In June, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Norway, and New Zealand imposed similar sanctions, citing violations of international law and human rights. The banned ministers, both staunch advocates of expanding Israeli settlements in occupied territories, have faced international outcry for statements perceived as racist and inflammatory.
The decision follows Slovenia’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine in May 2024, part of a wave of recognitions alongside Ireland, Norway, and Spain after Israel’s military escalation in Gaza. Nearly 150 countries now recognize Palestinian statehood.
President Nataša Pirc Musar has been vocal in international forums, urging stronger EU responses to what she labeled “genocide” in Gaza. Slovenia, once a quiet voice in EU foreign policy, is emerging as a leader pushing for accountability amid paralysis in Brussels.
Israel has condemned the ban, while EU unity on further action remains fractured.
