Rabuka clarifies decision to open Fiji’s embassy in Israel

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has clarified Government’s position on opening Fiji’s embassy in Israel.

He said the move reflected Fiji’s deep and longstanding ties to the Middle East through peacekeeping and foreign policy engagement.

Mr Rabuka said the decision was not sudden but anchored in Fiji’s history of military and diplomatic involvement in the Middle East.

“Nearly 100 embassies are already in Israel, with six in Jerusalem,” he said, addressing concerns over the politically sensitive location of missions.

He said five Cabinet ministers from across the coalition, including independents, had served in volatile Middle Eastern missions during their military careers.

“It would appear selfish if we only sent our servicemen and servicewomen to those areas without also deploying civilian diplomats to support our foreign policy and national interests,” he said.

Fiji’s peacekeeping legacy

PM Rabuka said Fiji had been renowned for its peacekeeping duties in the Middle East for decades, with soldiers serving in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and beyond.

Mr Rabuka himself served as a commander in the region during his military career.

He said the Government’s diplomatic expansion would follow this legacy, but with safeguards.

Postings to Israel would be voluntary.

“Those selected to man those posts will have to apply,” he confirmed, highlighting that Fiji’s representatives will be individuals willing to take up the challenge.

Mr Rabuka acknowledged that political and security risks remain high.

“Some countries have withdrawn their missions in protest or for safety considerations. Our decision will be made cautiously, balancing national interest with the realities on the ground.”

While the Government has yet to confirm a timeline, Mr Rabuka’s remarks underline his intent: Fiji’s soldiers have long borne the burden of conflict in the Middle East, and now, he says, it is time for diplomacy to follow.

Fiji abstains

Last Friday, the UN General Assembly voted in favour of a resolution presented by France and Saudi Arabia which sought to recognise a Palestinian state without Hamas involvement.

The text was adopted by 142 votes in favour, 10 against – including Israel and key ally the United States – and 12 abstentions. Fiji was among those that abstained alongside Samoa, South Sudan and Ethiopia.

Known as the New York Declaration, it is the outcome of an international conference held in July at UN Headquarters, organized by France and Saudi Arabia.

Mr Rabuka and some delegates travelling to Israel are expected to be in New York later this month to attend the summit.

The General Assembly comprises all 193 UN Member States and 142 countries voted in favour of a resolution backing the document.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj