Slovenia one step away from recognising Palestine, National Assembly now in play

(Patria) - The Slovenian government today adopted a decision to propose to the country's National Assembly the recognition of a Palestinian state.

MPs are expected to decide on the matter at an extraordinary session on Tuesday next week, reports RFE.

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob said the government is sending a message to both sides, i.e., both the Palestinian state and Israel, that it wants an immediate cessation of hostilities and the urgent release of hostages.

- The message of recognition is not directed against anyone; it is a message of peace - Golob said at a press conference.

In the explanation of the decision, the government stated that Slovenia, as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, constantly points to the unsustainability of the current situation due to the unresolved Palestinian issue and the risk of serious escalation in the region.

"Slovenia will continue to advocate for achieving peace and security in the wider region, which is in its strategic interest, and for reviving the Middle East peace process," the Slovenian government announced.

It stated that recognition will increase international pressure on Israel and Hamas to return to negotiations for a permanent ceasefire and the release of hostages.

"This would stop the killing of civilians, enable the delivery of humanitarian aid, and allow discussion on the necessary steps after the end of the conflict," reads the explanation of the draft decision on recognising Palestine.

With this recognition, the Slovenian government said it wants to send a decisive political signal that the disproportionate Israeli military attack on Gaza, which has so far caused material destruction and an uncontrolled humanitarian crisis, must end as soon as possible.

They also stated that recognition is not a reward for the terrorist movement Hamas for the attack on Israel.

"With this goal, a message is sent that Israel has the right to security, which includes the unacceptability of terrorist attacks on Israel, including the despicable act of taking hostages," the government said.

Slovenia initiated the procedure on 9 May and announced that it would submit the proposal to the National Assembly no later than 13 June.

Around 140 countries have already recognised a Palestinian state, which is more than two-thirds of UN member states. On Tuesday, 28 May, Spain, Ireland, and Norway also did so.