Ireland’s Prime Minister, Taoiseach Simon Harris, has stated that the country will not be silenced in its criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, despite Israel’s decision to close its embassy in Dublin.
Harris accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of attempting to distract from the issue, while reaffirming Ireland’s recognition of Israel’s right to self-defense. However, he strongly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, expressing pride in Ireland’s support for the Palestinian people.
“You know what I think is reprehensible? Killing children, I think that’s reprehensible,” Harris said. He also condemned the high civilian death toll and the lack of humanitarian aid flowing into Gaza.
The embassy closure followed Ireland’s support of an International Court of Justice petition accusing Israel of genocide. Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin explained that the move was made in adherence to international humanitarian law and emphasized that Ireland’s use of international courts for accountability should not be viewed as a hostile act.
