Zagreb: Croatian President Zoran Milanovic has rejected approval for the proposed Israeli ambassador, citing 'policies pursued by the current Israeli authorities,' according to a statement from the presidential office on Monday. 'The proposed ambassador of the State of Israel has not received, nor will he receive, the consent of the president of the republic,' the office said.

According to Anadolu Agency, the statement noted that Croatia's presidency had traditionally refrained from publicly commenting on ambassadorial nominations, in line with diplomatic practice. However, it highlighted that Israel deviated from this 'unwritten rule' by announcing the nominee's name before receiving formal consent from Croatia.

The statement further elaborated that 'in light of this action by the Israeli side,' President Milanovic confirmed the nominee would not be approved. The presidency emphasized that granting or withholding consent for foreign ambassadors is a sovereign right of Croatia and falls under the authority of the president.

Additionally, the presidency added that 'any public or political pressure . will not alter the president's decision.' As of now, there has been no immediate response from Israeli authorities regarding the rejection of their proposed ambassador.