Slovenia has announced a complete ban on all weapons trade with “Israel,” citing the European Union’s failure to take concrete action to address the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Slovenian government confirmed that it had adopted a decision prohibiting the export and transit of military weapons and equipment from or through Slovenia to “Israel,” as well as imports from “Israel” into the country.

The government emphasized that “Slovenia is the first European country” to implement a total ban, stressing that the move was being taken unilaterally because the EU had been “unable to adopt concrete measures” despite repeated calls from Ljubljana.

Slovenia had earlier warned that it would act independently, in coordination with like-minded states, if the EU failed to implement substantial measures within two weeks. The government pointed to the worsening situation in Gaza as the urgent driver for its decision.

“They are dying beneath the rubble, without access to drinking water, food, or basic medical care. This is a complete denial of humanitarian access and a deliberate prevention of the basic conditions necessary for survival,” the statement said. “In such circumstances, it is the duty of every responsible state to act—even if it means taking a step ahead of others.”

Prime Minister Robert Golob had already expressed dissatisfaction during the June 28 EU summit in Brussels, criticizing what he called a disjointed European approach and accusing some member states of prioritizing internal political considerations over the protection of Palestinian rights.

Slovenia has been increasingly vocal on the Palestinian issue. On June 6, 2024, the majority of its parliament voted to recognize the State of Palestine as an independent, sovereign state—joining Spain, Ireland, and Norway in taking this diplomatic step.

The government’s latest decision marks one of the strongest unilateral actions taken by any EU member state in response to Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has drawn widespread condemnation for the deepening humanitarian crisis. (ILKHA)