Israel shuts embassy in Ireland, cites “extreme anti-Israel policies”

Israel has confirmed it will close its embassy in Dublin, citing what it describes as “extreme anti-Israel policies” by the Irish government.

The decision, announced by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Sunday (15 Dec), follows a series of diplomatic actions by Ireland that Israel views as damaging to bilateral relations.

Saar stated that Ireland had crossed “every red line” in its stance toward Israel, which led to this significant diplomatic move.

He pointed to Ireland’s “unilateral decision to recognise a Palestinian state” in May as a key factor.

Additionally, Ireland’s recent support for South Africa’s legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, has further strained relations.

“The actions and anti-Semitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the de-legitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with double standards,” Saar said.

He added, “Israel will invest its resources in advancing bilateral relations with countries based on their attitudes and actions toward Israel.”

שר החוץ גדעון סער הורה היום (15/12) על פתיחת שגרירות ישראל חדשה במולדובה וסגירת שגרירות ישראל באירלנד.

היחסים בין ישראל למולדובה ידידותיים ושתי המדינות מעוניינות להרחיב ולהעמיק אותם. למולדובה יש כבר שגרירות בישראל והגיע העת שלישראל תהיה שגרירות במולדובה.

שר החוץ סער הודיע לשר… pic.twitter.com/28SznNtpiG

— משרד החוץ (@IsraelHebrew) December 15, 2024

In response, Irish leaders expressed regret and disappointment over Israel’s decision.

Prime Minister Simon Harris described the embassy closure as “deeply regrettable” and rejected any notion that Ireland is anti-Israel.

“Ireland is pro-peace, pro-human rights, and pro-international law,” he wrote on social media.

“Ireland wants a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine can live in peace and security. Ireland will always speak up for human rights and international law. Nothing will distract from that.”

This is a deeply regrettable decision from the Netanyahu government. I utterly reject the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel. Ireland is pro-peace, pro-human rights and pro-International law. https://t.co/rDga5GpT3u

— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) December 15, 2024

Ireland’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been clear.

In May, Ireland became one of only three European countries to officially recognise the State of Palestine, leading to the recall of Israel’s ambassador.

In March, the Irish government announced its intention to intervene in South Africa’s case at the ICJ, accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.

On 11 December, Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin confirmed that Ireland would formally join the case, condemning Israel’s military actions that have caused widespread death and destruction in Gaza.

South Africa first brought the case to the ICJ, accusing Israel of genocide. The court issued a ruling in January, ordering Israel to ‘take all measures within its power’ to prevent such acts.

Despite the embassy closure, Martin stated that Ireland had no plans to close its embassy in Israel.

“I believe firmly in the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels of communication and regret that this decision has been taken,” Martin said.

He reiterated Ireland’s position on the Gaza conflict, stressing adherence to international law and the protection of innocent lives.

“Ireland’s position has always been guided by international law and the obligation for all states to adhere to international humanitarian law,” Martin said.

“The continuation of the war in Gaza and the loss of innocent lives is unacceptable and contravenes international law. It represents collective punishment of the Palestinian people.”

Martin also called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

I have been informed today of the decision by the government of Israel to close its embassy in Dublin.

I believe firmly in the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels of communication and regret that this decision has been taken.

My full statement ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/FGmNFdjO6Q

— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) December 15, 2024

As Israel prepares to close its embassy in Dublin, it has also revealed plans to open a new diplomatic mission in Moldova.

The ongoing Israeli assault on Gaza, which began after a Hamas cross-border raid on 7 October 2023, has resulted in over 44,900 deaths and millions displaced.