The Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, has labelled as “ridiculous” comments made by the Israeli ambassador Dana Erlich concerning Ireland’s intention to recognise a Palestinian state. Speaking on RTÉ radio’s News At One, Mr Martin challenged the accusation, terming it a “ridiculous claim” and emphasised that Israel should have respect for the democratic opinions of other nations.
“For many years, everyone has agreed on the two-state solution,” he stated. He questioned how recognising a Palestinian state, especially towards the goal of achieving peace, could be viewed as supporting terrorism. He believes that the way forward for peace exists in the co-existence of Israelis and a Palestinian state.
Ms Erlich alleged that the Irish Government had “barely criticised Hamas” or taken measures against its “jihadi personality inclined to genocide”. This characterisation was firmly denied by Mr Martin.
“I disagree with that and I vehemently object to what the ambassador has stated,” he declared. He expressed his intention to respond to the ambassador, pointing out that he has criticised Hamas, not only for its attack on October 7th but also on other occasions.
“No one should doubt the resolute condemnation by the Irish Government of Hamas as an organisation on multiple occasions. The European Union has classified them as a terrorist group. As members of the European Union, it’s absurd to suggest we have not denounced Hamas. I’ve described its actions as jihadist, in reference to the killing and abuse of civilians, as well as child murders on October 7th,” he added.
Denying that recognition of a Palestinian state would validate Hamas, Mr Martin stressed the need for a two-state solution and the promotion of moderation after acknowledging a viable Palestinian state. “We’re validating the hopes of Palestinians in places like Gaza and the West Bank,” he argued.
Mr Martin also decried Saturday night’s Iranian assault on Israel as a “blatant disregard for international law”. Cautioning against a larger regional conflict, he warned that it would be “shattering and catastrophic” for the civilian population and advocated for self-restraint.
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