Slovenia bans imports from illegal Israeli settlements

LONDON

Slovenia on Wednesday introduced a ban on imports from illegal Israeli settlements, citing serious and ongoing violations of international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Slovenian Press Agency (STA) reported that the measure was taken at the behest of Prime Minister Robert Golob and underlined Slovenia’s commitment to international law.

“These actions not only endanger the lives and dignity of the Palestinian population but also the foundations of the international order. As a responsible member of the international community, Slovenia cannot and must not be part of a chain that enables or turns a blind eye to such practices,” the government said.

The move, which also prohibits any attempts to circumvent the ban, follows a series of diplomatic measures taken by the Slovenian government.

Just last week, it imposed an arms embargo on Israel and previously declared far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich personae non grata.

“These measures represent a clear response to the policy of the Israeli government, which, through its actions, undermines the prospects for a lasting peace and a two-state solution,” the government added.

Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon acknowledged the limited economic impact but defended the move as an important diplomatic gesture.

“It sends a clear message to Israel and the wider international community that violations of international law are not without consequences in international relations,” she said in a statement on X.

“It places Slovenia among countries that are principled, responsible and courageous.”

The government has tasked several ministries with exploring the possibility of banning exports to the settlements as well.

Additionally, Slovenia announced a new humanitarian aid package for Palestinian civilians, to be delivered through Jordan.

Israel has been facing mounting outrage over its destructive war on Gaza, where more than 61,000 people have been killed since October 2023. The military campaign has devastated the enclave, which is facing famine.

Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.