The Government in recent days announced Ireland would join South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, which accuses Israel of genocide.
Tánaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin confirmed today there are “no plans” to close Ireland’s embassy in Israel.
“Ireland and Israel will continue to maintain diplomatic relations. Inherent in that is the right to agree and disagree on fundamental points,” he said.
“There are no plans to close Ireland’s embassy in Israel, which is carrying out important work.”
Both the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste released statements shortly after the Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar told Israeli media they were closing the embassy in Dublin.
“Ireland’s antisemitic actions and rhetoric against Israel are rooted in delegitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state and reflect clear double standards,” Gideon Sa’ar said.
“Ireland has crossed all red lines in its treatment of Israel. We will redirect our resources toward advancing bilateral relations with countries based on priorities that reflect how different nations relate to Israel.”
The minister said Ireland’s actions “reflect a clear double standard”.
Israeli ambassador to Ireland Dana Erlich
He said there are countries which instead want to build on their links with Israel, such as Moldova and resources will instead be deployed there.
“There are countries interested in strengthening their ties with Israel where we don’t yet have diplomatic missions,” he said.
“We will adjust our diplomatic network while considering, among other factors, different countries’ approaches and actions toward Israel in the international arena.”
Israel’s ambassador to Ireland, Dana Erlich, was recalled back to Israel in May when Ireland recognised the state of Palestine.
The embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It is not clear on what date the embassy will close.
Releasing a statement on Sunday afternoon, Taoiseach Simon Harris said; “Ireland’s foreign policy is founded on our deep commitment to dialogue and to the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Embassy of Israel to Ireland in Ballsbridge, Dublin. Picture: Arthur Carron
“Resident embassies play a very important role in that regard.
“Keeping channels open has never been more important so that we can better understand each other’s positions, even when we disagree.”
He continued; “I utterly reject the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel. Ireland is pro-peace, pro-human rights and pro-international law.
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“Ireland wants a two-state solution and for Israel and Palestine to live in peace and security. Ireland will always speak up for human rights and international law. Nothing will distract from that.”
Also releasing a statement, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said; “I believe firmly in the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels of communication and regret that this decision has been taken.
“Ireland’s position on the conflict in the Middle East has always been guided by the principles of international law and the obligation on all States to adhere to international humanitarian law.
“This has been the case with regard to our response to the terrorist attack by Hamas in Israel on 7 October 2023, and to the conduct by Israel of its military operations since then. The continuation of the war in Gaza and the loss of innocent lives is simply unacceptable and contravenes international law. It represents the collective punishment of the Palestinian people in Gaza.”
He continued; “We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
“Ireland and Israel will continue to maintain diplomatic relations. Inherent in that is the right to agree and disagree on fundamental points.
“There are no plans to close Ireland’s embassy in Israel, which is carrying out important work.”
