israel-to-close-embassy-in-ireland-over-anti-israel-stance

Israel has decided to close its embassy in Ireland after the Irish government backed a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and officially recognised Palestine as a state. The move follows Ireland's ongoing criticism of Israel, especially in light of the ongoing Gaza war.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced the embassy closure, accusing the Irish government of "double standards" and an "extreme anti-Israel policy." 

Sa'ar criticised Ireland for its support of Palestine during the conflict, particularly pointing out Ireland's backing of a case led by South Africa at the ICJ, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza. He also pointed to Ireland's promotion of anti-Israel actions within the European Union.

In his statement, Sa'ar condemned Ireland's stance, saying the Irish government has failed to address rising antisemitism and rejected the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. 

He emphasised that Israel would focus on strengthening ties with countries that are more supportive of Israel's position.

However, the decision has drawn criticism within Israel. Opposition leader Yair Lapid, a former Prime Minister, disagreed with the closure, arguing that Israel should keep embassies in countries where there is clear opposition. 

Lapid suggested that avoiding conflict with such nations was not the right approach for Israel.

Ireland has long been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause. In May, it became one of the first European countries to recognise Palestine as a sovereign state. 

The Irish government, led by Prime Minister Simon Harris, has said that this decision was made to support a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Harris also called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stop the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In response to Israel's decision, Prime Minister Harris expressed regret, rejecting the claim that Ireland is anti-Israel. He stated that Ireland remains committed to peace, human rights, and international law, and would continue to advocate for a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully.

Despite the embassy closure, Ireland has emphasised that diplomatic relations between the two countries will continue, and it has no plans to shut down its own embassy in Tel Aviv.