Israel has announced the appointment of its first-ever resident ambassador to Slovenia, marking a significant step in strengthening diplomatic relations following a change of government in the European country.
The appointment, announced on Sunday by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, comes amid a noticeable improvement in ties between both nations after years of strained relations.
The ministry confirmed that Ruth Cohen-Dar, who previously served as Israel’s non-resident ambassador to Slovenia and Malta, will now become the country’s first permanent envoy based in Ljubljana.
Her appointment follows Israel’s recent decision to establish an embassy in Slovenia, further reinforcing diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
According to the Israeli foreign ministry, the decision reflects the renewed relationship between Israel and Slovenia under the administration of Prime Minister Janez Jansa.
“The decision to establish the embassy was made after many years of a downturn in relations between Israel and Slovenia, and following the formation of a new government in Slovenia headed by Janez Jansa, a friend of Israel,” the ministry said.
Relations between the two countries had deteriorated under the previous centre-left government led by former Prime Minister Robert Golob.
Golob’s administration strongly criticised Israel’s military operations in Gaza, describing the offensive as “genocide,” a position that contributed to tensions between the two governments.
However, diplomatic relations have improved considerably since the conservative government of Prime Minister Janez Jansa assumed office.
The new administration has reversed several policies introduced by the previous government that were viewed by Israel as unfriendly.
Among the changes, Slovenia has lifted its arms embargo against Israel and cancelled entry restrictions previously imposed on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and two members of his cabinet.
The government has also reversed an earlier decision banning imports originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
In addition, authorities removed a Palestinian flag that had been symbolically displayed on the government building since Slovenia officially recognised Palestinian statehood in 2024.
The latest diplomatic developments signal a renewed phase of cooperation between Israel and Slovenia after years of political disagreements over Middle East policy.
