Janez Jansa leads Slovenia's diplomatic shift as the country opens its first Israeli embassy in Ljubljana

The opening represents a reversal of the previous administration's policies, as the government under Robert Golob had recognized a Palestinian state and imposed an arms embargo on Israel. Under the Jansa administration, the Palestinian flag was removed from the government building and measures against Israel were scrapped. Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer stated that the embassy should mark the beginning of a period of greater dialogue and stronger cooperation. Gideon Saar described the day as a historic, noting Israel's commitment to its friendship with Slovenia. Despite the official celebration, thousands of people gathered in Ljubljana to protest the opening. Protesters carried banners expressing support for Palestine and criticizing the Israeli war on Gaza. A poll indicated that 56 percent of Slovenians opposed closer ties with Israel, while only 14 percent supported them.