A senior adviser to Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda said Tuesday that the visit by Israeli President Isaac Herzog was necessary despite criticism surrounding Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
“Under the circumstances, I believe the visit was truly necessary,” said Deividas Matulionis, chief adviser to the president on national security, in an interview with the radio Žinių Radijas. “We understand the protesters, of course, but at this time, the question of recognising Palestine is not on our agenda.”
Herzog met with Nausėda on Monday to discuss defence cooperation and strengthening economic ties.
The Israeli president had originally planned to visit Lithuania last year, but the trip was postponed due to the escalating conflict in Gaza. Asked whether the visit signals easing tensions, Matulionis responded: "I wouldn’t say the tension has eased. The fighting is still ongoing.”
Matulionis reiterated Lithuania’s position that Israel has the right to defend itself following Hamas’ deadly attack in October 2023. However, he emphasised that Israel must also respect international law and allow humanitarian aid to reach the Gaza Strip, where civilians are facing starvation.
“Our relationship with Israel is important,” he added. “It is a key economic partner and an important partner in the supply of military equipment. We also seek to maintain contact with the Litvak community.”
Matulionis noted Israel’s investments in research and innovation and suggested that Lithuanian scientists have much to learn from Israeli advancements.
Herzog’s visit comes amid growing international criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Israel says it aims to eliminate Hamas, which it considers a terrorist organisation and a major threat to its security.
Critics argue that Israel’s response to the 2023 attack has been disproportionate and may amount to genocide. According to authorities in Gaza, more than 60,000 people – most of them civilians – have been killed during the Israeli military campaign.
The last visit to Lithuania by an Israeli president took place in 2013, when then-President Shimon Peres travelled to the Baltic country.
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