Israel has opened its embassy in Slovenia, marking a notable change in diplomatic relations with the European Union nation. This move comes as tensions between Israel and some of its long-standing allies have risen, particularly over Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar traveled to Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital, for the event, meeting with Slovenian Foreign Minister Tone Kajzer. Saar called the opening a "historic day," emphasizing Israel's role as "the only democracy in the Middle East and almost the only real and true partner of Europe." He also stated that Israel is "defending Europe, Europe's security, directly and indirectly," and described the country as "the fortress on the front line for Western civilization." Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside the embassy building to oppose the opening, calling for its closure. Kajzer said the embassy opening should "mark the beginning of a period of greater dialogue, stronger cooperation and, above all, more tangible results for the benefit of our people," according to a post from the Slovenian foreign ministry on X. This development follows the United Kingdom’s recent decision to ban trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, with France and Canada making similar announcements. These actions are seen as symbolic expressions of dissatisfaction with Israel by some of its closest allies and highlight the Israeli government’s growing isolation following the Gaza war. Israel responded by threatening to close the British consulate in Jerusalem. Slovenia has moved away from the policies of its previous government, which was among the most vocal critics of Israel in the European Union. The former center-left government under Prime Minister Robert Golob recognized a Palestinian state in 2024 and imposed restrictions on Israeli settlements, including an arms embargo and entry bans on Israeli officials. Current Prime Minister Janez Jansa, upon taking office, removed the Palestinian flag from a Slovenian government building where it had been displayed alongside the Slovenian, EU, and Ukrainian flags. His government has since lifted all measures against Israel and is working to repair the damage caused by the previous administration. Jansa criticized the policies of the Golob government as "anti-Semitic" and said they caused "enormous economic damage." Golob accused his successor of blocking the EU from taking a stronger stance on illegal settlements and called the embassy opening "another step in the same direction of shifting away from international law." His Freedom Movement party announced it would attempt to remove Jansa and Kajzer from office in Parliament. In August, Slovenia reportedly pressured the EU to weaken a statement condemning Israeli settlements, drawing criticism domestically but praise from Israeli officials. Kajzer told the Associated Press that Slovenia "never blocked anything" but is "constructively contributing to the discussion." Political analyst Andraz Zorko noted that the policy shift does not align with public opinion in Slovenia, a traditionally moderate nation of about 2 million people, where the majority are either against Israel or remain neutral. Previously, Israel’s embassy in Vienna, Austria, handled diplomatic affairs in Slovenia. Saar and Kajzer signed a multi-sector cooperation agreement covering education, science, culture, youth, and sport. A business forum is also taking place in Ljubljana, signaling efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.