Simon Harris, the Taoiseach of Ireland, believes that the government’s decision to officially recognise Palestine as a state would not have come as a surprise to Israel. He feels it was the correct move in an attempt to push forward the peace process, though it may seem distant currently, but is considered absolutely necessary. He commented on this issue as he attended the inaugural Child Poverty and Wellbeing Summit at Dublin Castle on Thursday.
In his address to the Israeli government, Harris maintained that while they recognise the state of Israel and support its right to peace and security, they concurrently assert that the Palestinian people reserve the same right. He emphasised the need to cease the humanitarian crisis currently evolving in Palestine and Gaza.
Last Friday, Harris had a constructive, if stern, conversation with Isaac Herzog, the Israeli president. He pointed out that Israel would not be surprised by the decision undertaken by Ireland, Norway, and Spain, given their previous exchange and clarification of Ireland’s stance.
The government’s recognition of Palestine on Wednesday was met with applause from many civil society groups, opposition parties, and supporters of Palestine. However, Israel and its advocates condemned the move vehemently, warning it as a reward for Hamas, which could lead to diplomatic repercussions.
Israel’s reaction to this decision is slated for discussion over the next few days. Ambassador Dana Erlich is anticipated to return to Jerusalem for consultations with the foreign ministry. It is rumored that potential restrictions on Irish NGOs’ access to the West Bank and Gaza following the conflict may be discussed.
In retaliation, Israel plans to rebuke the ambassadors of Ireland, Norway, and Spain for their governments’ plan to acknowledge Palestine. The ambassadors have been invited to Jerusalem’s Foreign Ministry, where they will be shown an unpublished video of Hamas capturing female prisoners during its attack on Israel on October 7th, which triggered the Gaza War. Israel has also called back its representatives from Dublin, Oslo, and Madrid for consultations.
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