Israel opens high-tech diplomatic base in Fiji as protests erupt over Gaza war fallout

Israel has established a new permanent diplomatic presence in Fiji, opening its embassy in Suva, in a move that both governments say signals a sharp expansion of ties between the two countries.

Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka marked the opening with Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who is visiting the Pacific region with what officials describe as a programme focused on technology, development and security cooperation.

Rabuka told journalists that the new embassy represents a deepening of relations with Israel as his government signals its interest in cybersecurity, digital health systems and agricultural technology.

Rabuka has previously described the relationship as a “golden era” of cooperation.

The Fijian leader has also said that his government is looking at ways to strengthen policing and national security tools, which include technology used to tackle transnational crime and drug trafficking.

But he has moved to reassure critics that Fiji will not enter any military alignment through the relationship, saying this would conflict with the Pacific’s “Ocean of Peace” framework.

Outside the embassy opening, tensions were visible in Suva. Close to 100 civil society representatives and human rights advocates gathered at the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre compound, under police monitoring, to protest Israel’s presence and call for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Shamima Ali, chairperson of the Non-Government Organisation Coalition for Human Rights, strongly criticised the government's decision to strengthen diplomatic ties.

Fiji's Prime Minister and Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar in Suva. Photo/Fiji govt

She said in a statement that it raised serious concerns about Fiji’s foreign policy direction and human rights commitments.

When asked about concerns linking Fiji’s diplomatic position with the conflict in Gaza, Rabuka dismissed the criticism, saying the issue was “none of our business” and that human rights matters should be dealt with through the United Nations system.

The visit also brought strong comments from Sa’ar, who spoke about the impact of global instability on fuel prices and shipping routes including disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Watch a protest organised by the NGO Coalition of Human Rights and the Fijians for Palestine groups outside the new Israeli Embassy in Suva below.

He blamed Iran for regional instability and defended Israel’s military actions, arguing they were necessary to counter extremist threats.

Sa’ar also responded to protesters gathered outside the embassy site, saying Israel’s focus remains on security and stability and he urged the critics to “do something positive” with their time.

The opening of the embassy marks a significant step in Israel’s Pacific engagement strategy as Fiji continues to position itself as a regional hub for diplomatic and security partnerships while facing growing domestic debate over the human impact of the Gaza war.