Slovenia bars far-right Israeli cabinet ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich
Summary
Slovenia has barred two Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, from entering the country. This move comes after accusations that these ministers have incited violence and supported illegal settlement expansions in Palestinian territories.Key Facts
- Slovenia declared Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich "personae non gratae," meaning they are not welcome.
- This is the first time an EU country has banned members of Israel's government in this context.
- The Slovenian government accused the ministers of inciting violence and violating Palestinian human rights.
- Both ministers are known for supporting illegal settlement growth in the West Bank.
- The International Court of Justice has ruled Israel's presence in Palestinian areas as illegal, a decision that Israel has not adhered to.
- Ben-Gvir and Smotrich face international criticism for their hard-line positions and comments.
- Slovenia's decision follows sanctions by other countries, like the UK and Canada, against these ministers.
- Slovenia's action was partly due to a lack of consensus among EU foreign ministers on taking joint action.
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