Slovenia Revokes 2025 Ban on Arms Trade and Imports with Israel
Government Decision and Context
Revocation of the 2025 Arms Ban
June 11 (Reuters) - Slovenia's government has revoked a 2025 decision banning the export and transit of weapons and military equipment to Israel, as well as most arms imports from the country, the Defence Ministry said on Thursday.
Reasons for Lifting the Ban
• The ministry said the ban, introduced in July, was no longer necessary as the trade in arms is already governed by national law and European Union rules.
Alignment with EU Regulations
• It added that existing legislation and regulations already define licensing procedures and controls, and Thursday's decision was also aligned with the EU Common Position on arms export controls.
Background of the 2025 Measure
• The 2025 measure barred the export, transit of military goods to Israel and imports from Israel, exempting equipment needed for Slovenia's security.
• The measure was introduced under then-Prime Minister Robert Golob, who said Slovenia was the first EU country to impose such an embargo.
Recent Political Developments
• In June, Slovenia's parliament approved Prime Minister Janez Jansa's centre-right government, ending a political deadlock since a March election produced no outright majority.
(Reporting by Antonis Pothitos; Editing by William Maclean)
