Israel has announced it will close its embassy in Dublin, accusing the Irish government of fostering "extreme anti-Israel policies." The declaration came from Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar on Sunday, citing a long history of deteriorated diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Sa'ar's sentiments were clear, stating, "The actions and antisemitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the delegitimization and demonization of the Jewish state, along with double standards. Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel." This assertion follows Ireland's recent recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state and its backing of legal actions against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The embassy's closure highlights the tensions brewing between Israel and Ireland over reactions to the violent conflict in Gaza, which reignited on October 7, 2023, after Hamas's initial attack. Ireland has positioned itself as one of Israel's most vocal critics, particularly targeting the actions stemming from Israel's response to this assault.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris did not hold back his disappointment over Israel's decision, calling it "deeply regrettable." He stated, "I utterly reject the assertion...that Ireland is anti-Israel. Ireland is pro-peace, pro-human rights and pro-international law." Harris reinforced Ireland's intent to engage diplomatically even amid disagreements, underscoring the importance of dialogue during complex international disputes.
The tensions escalated when, earlier this year, Ireland officially recognized the State of Palestine, becoming one of Western Europe's first nations to do so. Harris regards this action as appropriate, stating after the recognition, "There is never a wrong time to do the right thing." Alongside the recognition, Ireland supported legal proceedings brought before the ICJ, with the court ruling earlier this year indicating potential genocidal acts by Israel, without formally declaring genocide.
The situation has sparked debates within Israel. Yair Lapid, the leader of the opposition, criticized the decision to close the embassy, terming it "a victory for antisemitism and anti-Israel organizations." He believed the focus should be on confronting adversities rather than retreating from them. Lapid stated, "The way to deal with criticism is not to run away, but to stay and fight!" His remarks drew the ire of Sa'ar, who responded saying, "Shame on you, Yair!... This is clear anti-Semitism based on delegitimization, dehumanization, and double standards toward the Jewish state."
The deteriorated relations signal broader geopolitical shifts, as Ireland has strengthened its advocacy for human rights and international law, drawing ire from the Israeli government. Deputy Prime Minister Micheal Martin echoed this sentiment, commenting on the importance of maintaining communication channels between both countries: "Ireland’s position on the conflict...has always been guided by the principles of international law and the obligation on all states to adhere to international humanitarian law." Martin emphasized the need for humanitarian aid to Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire.
Despite the closure, both leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to maintain some diplomatic relations. Ireland has not recalled its envoy to Israel, indicating its willingness to continue discussions even with concessions on both sides. The Irish Jewish community also voiced concerns about the impact of the embassy closure, describing it as distressing for those needing consular support.
Reflecting on the shift to other diplomatic engagements, Sa'ar announced plans to open a new Israeli embassy in Moldova. He emphasized the necessity of readjusting Israel's diplomatic structures based on the nations' stances toward Israel.
While Israel maintains its stance, the closure of the Dublin embassy underlines the complexity of international relationships formed against the backdrop of advocacy for national sovereignty and human rights. This situation encapsulates the fraught dynamics of Israel's diplomacy and the responses from global powers as discussions about the rights of Palestinians continue to evolve.
