Dublin: Prime Minister Simon Harris has indicated a growing momentum within EU countries towards recognising Palestine, following discussions with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who has disclosed plans to formalise recognition by July.
Harris underscored the enduring demand of the Palestinian people for dignity and sovereignty, expressing solidarity with their aspirations for national self-determination. He revealed that several EU member states, including Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, and Malta, are poised to extend recognition to Palestine. Notably, 72% of United Nations member states, along with Western European and Anglosphere countries, have already recognised Palestine, despite its non-full membership status at the UN.
Ireland’s Position on Palestinian Recognition
In Ireland, a bill recognising Palestinian statehood was passed by both the Seanad and Dáil in 2014. However, subsequent government action on this matter has been contingent upon collaboration with other EU member states. Harris affirmed Ireland’s commitment to move forward on Palestinian recognition in coordination with fellow EU nations when deemed opportune.
Deputy Prime Minister Micheal Martin has echoed this sentiment, indicating plans to join Spain, Belgium, and Malta in recognising Palestine. Martin disclosed discussions with foreign ministers from Spain, Norway, and Slovenia, signalling ongoing consultations to form a coalition of EU and non-EU countries supporting Palestinian recognition.
Reassessment of EU-Israel Relations
Efforts have also been initiated by Harris and Sanchez to reassess EU trade relations with Israel. Former Prime Minister Leo Varadkar initiated this process by addressing a letter to the EU Commission, advocating for a review of the existing agreement dating back to 2000, which formalises political and economic cooperation between the EU and Israel. Both Harris and Sanchez have criticised Israel for alleged violations of human rights and democratic principles outlined in the agreement’s Article 2.
Israeli Response and Rebuttal
Israeli Ambassador Dana Erlich has condemned the Irish government’s inclination towards recognising Palestinian statehood, characterising it as a reward for terrorism. Deputy Prime Minister Martin dismissed this assertion, labelling it as baseless. He reiterated Ireland’s commitment to upholding principles of justice and international law in advocating for Palestinian rights.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp