On December 15, Israel announced that it would be closing its embassy in Dublin due to what it described as Ireland’s “extremely anti-Israel policy.” Irish Prime Minister also responded to this decision made by Israel.
The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release, “The decision to close the Israeli embassy in Dublin is a response to the extreme anti-Israel policy of the Irish government.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said in the statement, “Ireland’s actions against Israel and anti-Semitic rhetoric stem from delegitimizing and demonizing this Jewish nation, as well as double standards. Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel.”
In the same press release issued on Sunday, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced the establishment of an Israeli embassy in Moldova.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris responded on the same day, expressing regret over the decision, emphasizing that Ireland will always defend human rights and international law.
“I completely reject the notion of ‘Ireland against Israel.’ Ireland supports peace, human rights, and international law,” he said on the social media platform X, “Ireland hopes to achieve a two-state solution, wishing for Israel and Palestine to coexist peacefully and securely.”
Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin stated that both countries will maintain diplomatic relations, with Ireland having no plans to close its embassy in Israel.
In May of this year, Ireland announced its recognition of the State of Palestine. Following this, Israel recalled its ambassador from Ireland. Last week, Ireland publicly supported South Africa’s accusations against Israel for genocide in the International Court of Justice (ICJ), further enraging Israel.
Israel vehemently opposes South Africa’s accusations, stating that they distort the meaning of genocide. Hamas is internationally recognized as a terrorist organization, and Israel has targeted it in military operations in Gaza.
Israel maintains that it did not choose war but was forced into it after Hamas launched cross-border attacks. Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated, “There is nothing more brutal and absurd than such allegations (South Africa’s accusations).”