Despite the Withdrawal of Israel’s Ambassador, Ireland’s Support for Palestinians Remains Strong.
Ireland Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case Against Israel
Ireland’s decision to back South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, has sparked a diplomatic rift that observers say has been years in the making.
On Monday, Israel’s new Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, escalated tensions by accusing Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris of anti-Semitism. Saar claimed, “There is a difference between criticism and anti-Semitism based on delegitimisation and dehumanisation of Israel.”
Responding in Dublin, Harris stood firm, reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to international law. “You know what I think is reprehensible? Killing children. Seeing the scale of civilian deaths in Gaza. People being left to starve while humanitarian aid is blocked,” Harris stated.
Historical Parallels Drive Irish Support
Ireland’s vocal criticism of Israel’s actions reflects deep public sentiment, rooted in shared experiences of occupation and colonisation. Many Irish citizens see parallels between their history under English rule and the plight of Palestinians.
Fatin Al Tamimi, Vice Chair of the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign, described Ireland as a natural ally. “As soon as people learn I’m Palestinian, they say they understand. But I still have to explain the scale of the genocide in Gaza,” she said. Al Tamimi’s sister remains trapped in Gaza, and she continues to call for an end to Irish trade with Israel.
Political and Public Pressure
Ireland has been consistent in its stance. In late 2023, former Irish leader Leo Varadkar condemned Israel’s military response as “approaching revenge.” Ireland, alongside Spain, Belgium, and Malta, urged the EU to demand a ceasefire, highlighting accusations of double standards in Europe’s approach to Ukraine and Gaza.
By May 2024, Ireland, Spain, and Norway officially recognised Palestinian statehood, prompting Israel to recall its ambassador temporarily. “Irish support for Palestine is longstanding and widespread,” said Ray Murphy, professor at the Irish Centre for Human Rights. “It’s one of the few issues where there are no grey areas; people see it as just right.”
Israeli Backlash and Media Criticism
Israel’s anger towards Ireland has been amplified in its media. Israeli legislator Ofer Cassif downplayed the controversy’s impact domestically, stating, “Every criticism is immediately branded as anti-Semitism – it’s the usual drill.”
The Times of Israel published a scathing blog titled “Why the Irish Hate the Jews,” blaming Ireland’s Christian roots. Meanwhile, other commentators mocked Irish migration history to deflect criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
A Diplomatic Outlier in Europe
While Ireland’s stance has resonated domestically, it has made Dublin an outlier within the European Union, where countries like Germany remain staunch supporters of Israel. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s unwavering backing of Israel has drawn internal criticism, with hundreds of EU officials signing letters of protest.
“What’s more concerning is the US relationship,” Murphy warned, highlighting Ireland’s reliance on American investment. A future Trump administration, known for leveraging trade and tariffs, could pressure Ireland to align more closely with US-Israeli policies.
Unwavering Resolve
Despite potential economic and political pressures, Irish public sentiment remains steadfast. For Al Tamimi and many others, the connection to Palestine is personal. “My children are Irish-born citizens, but they want to go to Palestine and live,” she said.
The question now is how resolute Ireland will remain as global powers intensify their support for Israel. For many Irish, the answer is clear: solidarity with Palestine is non-negotiable.
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