Photo by cottonbro studio
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced on Sunday the closure of the Israel embassy in Ireland, citing what he termed “extreme anti-Israel policies” from the Irish government.
According to Sa’ar, “The antisemitic rhetoric and actions from Ireland against Israel are part of a broader effort to delegitimize and demonize the Jewish state, characterized by double standards. Ireland has overstepped all acceptable limits in its dealings with Israel.”
He further emphasized that Israel would focus its efforts on strengthening bilateral relations with countries globally, taking into account their attitudes and actions towards Israel.
The foreign ministry’s statement highlighted several actions by the Irish government, including its recognition of a Palestinian state and support for South Africa’s legal proceedings against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized this decision in a post on X, describing it as a “win for anti-Semitism and organizations hostile to Israel.” He remarked, “The appropriate response to criticism is not to retreat, but to confront it actively!”
Sa’ar responded to Lapid’s remarks, calling them shameful and accusing him of promoting anti-Semitism through delegitimization and double standards. Irish Prime Minister Simon described Israel’s decision as “deeply regrettable.”
I reject the allegations that Ireland is anti-Israel. Ireland is pro-human rights, pro-peace and pro international law.
Ireland announced in May its decision to officially recognize the State of Palestine. Prime Minister Harris stated during an interview “There is never a wrong time to do the right thing.” In reaction to this announcement, Israel promptly recalled its ambassador from Ireland. In March, Dublin expressed its intention to participate in a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), underscoring the nation’s enduring support for the Palestinian cause. The case was initially presented to the ICJ by South Africa, and in initial ruling issued in January, the court instructed Israel to “take all measures within its power” to prevent genocidal actions in Gaza, although refrained from labeling the situation as genocide.
