Czechia backs Israel's right to self-defense, says Senate Speaker

Czechia supports Israel's right to defend itself against terrorist attacks, Senate Speaker Miloš Vystrčil stated after talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in Prague on Thursday. However, he emphasized the importance of respecting international law in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

“We support Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist attacks by Hamas, Hezbollah, and others, including those originating from Yemen or Iran,” Vystrčil said. “At the same time, Czechia recognizes international law and believes it must be respected in all conflicts, including the current war.”

Saar assured Czech officials that Israel is committed to adhering to international law and is increasing humanitarian aid in conflict-affected territories.

Earlier in the day, Saar discussed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský. Saar noted that Israel has appealed the decision.

Vystrčil clarified that Czechia’s official bodies will not comment on the ICC decision, noting that any reactions from Czech politicians are personal opinions.

On the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, Vystrčil relayed Saar’s position: “If Hezbollah abides by the ceasefire, Israel will honor it. However, if it is violated, Israel is prepared to respond immediately.”

Vystrčil also commended Israel’s strong support for Ukraine amidst Russian aggression, noting a shared perspective on global threats posed by Russia, North Korea, China, and Iran.

The discussions also addressed enhancing bilateral cooperation in the economy, science, and research sectors.

Several dozen protesters gathered outside the Czech Foreign Ministry during Saar's visit with Lipavský, calling for severing Czech-Israeli ties and urging EU sanctions against Israel.

Demonstrators, holding Palestinian flags, chanted slogans like “Free Palestine” and “Stop killing children” and inscribed messages on the pavement listing Palestinian children killed in Israeli military actions.

On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas gunmen attacked southern Israel, killing nearly 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages to Gaza. In response, Israeli military actions in Gaza have reportedly killed over 44,200 Palestinians and injured nearly 105,000, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, with the majority being civilians.

In line with its pro-Israel stance, Czechia blocked a joint EU statement calling for an “immediate ceasefire” between Israel and Hezbollah in October, with Lipavský saying that the EU statement contained limited Israel's right to self-defense.