ZAGREB, May 19, 2026 (WAFA) – Croatian President Zoran Milanović announced his refusal to accept the credentials of the new Israeli ambassador, a move he linked to the policies of the current Israeli government and the ongoing war on the Gaza Strip.

Milanović stated that his country would not approve the proposed ambassador's appointment, indicating that the candidate had not received, and would not receive, his approval. This stance reflects his objection to Israeli policies during the war.

Israeli media reported that Ambassador Nisan Amdor, appointed in November to succeed the current ambassador, is expected to arrive in Croatia by the end of May as chargé d'affaires, a position that does not require presidential approval.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Croatian president clarified that approving or rejecting ambassadors is a sovereign right of the state. He accused Israel of disrespecting diplomatic norms by announcing the appointment prematurely before obtaining official approval.

Milanovic is known for his strong criticism of the Israeli aggression against Gaza, in contrast to the Croatian government's more pro-Israel stance, reflecting an internal divergence in the official position on the war.

K.T