The Taoiseach has criticised Iran’s recent missile strike on Israel, calling the surge in conflict over the past seven days a “critical point of danger” for the region in a statement by the Irish administration. Simon Harris urged all parties to retreat from the precipice, emphasising the necessity for a reduction in tensions and a truce.
Harris squarely condemned Iran’s offensive: “What Iran carried out yesterday should be deplored by all. Ireland certainly denounces it, and if any of these missiles had penetrated the defence system, we would be confronted with an appalling scenario of civilian casualties in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem,” he said on Wednesday morning.
He implicated Israel in the intensification of the conflict, highlighting their intrusion into Lebanon as a violation of the Charter of the United Nations. In discussing the situation in Gaza, Harris labeled it a terrible humanitarian disaster, often referring to it as a “children’s war”.
In line with Irish, UN, and EU perspectives, Harris insisted on the necessity of a ceasefire and de-escalation. When prompted about the potential impact of President Joe Biden’s staunch backing of Israel on their upcoming dialogue, the Taoiseach affirmed that he would decisively present Ireland’s stance on the dispute.
Harris responded to inquiries regarding challenges to Mr Biden over America’s continued armament supply to Israel. He emphasised Ireland’s sturdy diplomatic ties with the US that span over a century. “Of course, even friends must be honest with each other, and Ireland has never shied away from expressing our opinions. Our independent foreign policies regarding the Middle East are transparent,” he asserted.
Likewise, Harris did not hesitate in expressing his conviction that “the United States president is undoubtedly making significant efforts to broker a ceasefire.”