Croatian President Rejects Israel’s New Ambassador Over Gaza Policy Dispute

Croatian President Zoran Milanović has formally rejected Israel’s proposed new ambassador to Croatia, citing concerns over Israel’s current policies and what he described as a breach of diplomatic protocol.

In a statement issued on Monday, the president’s office said the proposed envoy “has not received, nor will he receive” presidential approval to serve as Israel’s ambassador in Zagreb.

The move marks the first time in Croatia’s history that a president has refused to grant agrément, the formal diplomatic consent required before an ambassador can take up a post.

Dispute Over Diplomatic Procedure

President Milanović said Israel violated an “unwritten rule” of diplomacy by publicly announcing its ambassador-designate before receiving official approval from the Croatian head of state.

Under Croatia’s constitutional framework, the president has authority to confirm foreign ambassadors, even though executive powers are largely held by the government.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said it is working with Croatian officials to resolve the matter and determine the future status of Israel’s diplomatic representation in Zagreb.

Ambassador May Serve in Lower Diplomatic Role

The diplomat nominated for the post, Nissan Amdur, was expected to replace outgoing Ambassador Gary Koren at the end of May.

According to Israeli media reports, Amdur may instead serve as chargé d’affaires, a temporary diplomatic position that does not require presidential approval.

Growing Tensions Over Gaza War

Relations between Croatia and Israel have become increasingly strained as President Milanović has repeatedly criticized Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

Milanović has condemned what he describes as violations of international humanitarian law and previously announced that Croatia’s armed forces would not cooperate with the Israeli military.

He has also criticized the broader regional conflict involving Iran, warning that escalating tensions in the Middle East could have severe economic and geopolitical consequences.

Split Within Croatia’s Leadership

Milanović, who has served as president since 2020, represents Croatia’s center-left opposition and often clashes with the country’s conservative government, which has maintained stronger support for Israel.

Although the presidency in Croatia holds limited executive power, decisions regarding ambassadorial appointments remain one of the office’s key constitutional responsibilities.

Diplomatic Implications

The unprecedented rejection highlights deepening divisions within Europe over the war in Gaza and demonstrates how foreign policy disagreements can affect diplomatic relations.

The development may complicate relations between Croatia and Israel, though both governments are expected to seek a practical solution to maintain normal diplomatic ties.

Courtesy: aljazeera