Albania joins Israel Allies Group, signaling bipartisan support for Israel
Albania has become the 64th country in the world to join the Israel Allies Caucus, launching a bipartisan parliamentary group in support of Israel. The group, formally introduced in the Albanian Parliament, is co-chaired by Romina Kuko of the Socialist Party and Gazmend Bardhi, head of the Democratic Party’s parliamentary group.
Why is this important: The formation of the group signals rare cross-party unity in Albania and deepens its alignment with Israel on diplomatic and interfaith grounds — particularly notable for a Muslim-majority country. The move has been widely covered in Israeli media as an expansion of faith-based diplomacy in the Balkans.
Context: The new parliamentary group aims to work in coordination with the global Israel Allies Foundation, promoting Israel’s legitimacy on the world stage and fostering ties rooted in shared values and history.
Romina Kuko, Socialist MP: “The fact that this group includes members from both the majority and the opposition carries a strong symbolic message, reflecting our unified national commitment and the excellent relations between our two peoples.”
Gazmend Bardhi, head of the DP parliamentary group:“This initiative reflects our shared values and historic ties. Albania’s rescue of Jews during World War II remains a proud symbol of our humanity and courage. Through this platform, we strengthen our partnership in promoting peace, coexistence, and human dignity.”
Members of the Albanian parliamentary group also signed the official Israel Allies Caucus resolution, formalizing their support.
International reaction: Israeli media outlets like The Jerusalem Post and JNS highlighted Albania’s consistent support for Israel at international forums, including its abstentions on several controversial UN resolutions.
JNS noted that the group marks a significant expansion of Jewish diplomatic outreach in a Muslim-majority Balkan nation, emphasizing Albania’s historic and contemporary support for the Jewish people.
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