Dublin: The diplomatic row between Israel and Ireland has deepened following Israel’s decision to close its embassy in Dublin. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar accused the Irish government of being “anti-Semitic” and working to delegitimise the Jewish state. He criticised Ireland’s intervention in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) genocide case and claimed the Irish government has systematically encouraged anti-Israeli policies while attempting to isolate Israel within the European Union.
Sa’ar further accused Ireland of double standards, questioning its stance during World War II when, according to him, Ireland remained neutral while Jewish children starved to death in the Holocaust. He also accused Ireland of trying to “terrorise” and demonise Israel internationally.
In response, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris strongly rejected these accusations. Harris condemned the Israeli foreign minister’s remarks, stating that Ireland “cannot and will not be silenced” by inflammatory rhetoric. He emphasised that Ireland’s stance is rooted in upholding human rights, international law, and the protection of civilians.
“I cannot agree with starving children or the killing of innocent civilians,” Harris said. He accused Israel of attempting to distract global attention from the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “Ireland has consistently condemned all attacks, including Hamas’ actions against Israel, and we demand the release of hostages. However, what the Netanyahu government is doing to innocent civilians in Gaza and the West Bank is absolutely inhumane,” Harris added.
Harris reiterated that Ireland’s position reflects the sentiment of its people, who are deeply concerned about the loss of innocent lives. He affirmed that Ireland would continue to call for a ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and adherence to international law, while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel. He also emphasised that Ireland’s embassy in Israel would remain open.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Micheál Martin echoed Harris’ sentiments, dismissing claims of hostility toward Israel. Martin underlined that Ireland’s actions are based on humanitarian principles and international law, including its support for international courts such as the ICJ and the International Criminal Court (ICC). “Ireland’s approach is a call for humanity, not hostility,” Martin stated.
Martin emphasised that Ireland, alongside countries like Spain and Norway, is demanding an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza. He insisted that Ireland respects Israel’s right to peace and security but criticised the current actions of the Netanyahu government as disproportionate and harmful to civilians.
The diplomatic standoff has sparked divisions within Ireland’s domestic political landscape. Jim O’Leary, a Fine Gael councillor and mayor of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, criticised the government’s intervention in the ICJ case as “reprehensible” and “diplomatic suicide.” In response, Harris defended his party colleagues’ right to differing views but maintained that the government’s position would not change. “We cannot ignore the killing of children, the starvation of civilians, and the lack of humanitarian aid. Ireland’s stance is principled and proud, and it reflects the will of the Irish people,” Harris said.
As tensions persist, the Irish government remains steadfast in its position. Harris reiterated that Ireland’s focus is on peace, human rights, and international law. “We will continue to speak out against war crimes and advocate for a just solution,” he concluded.
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