Sunday, September 8, 2024

Ireland to officially recognise state of Palestine

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It is set to join two other EU countries in acknowledging the war-torn country as an official state.

The Irish Government has flagged its intention to recognise Palestine as a state this month amid unprecedented attacks in the Gaza Strip by the Israel Defence Forces.

Former taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez raised questions months ago about EU trade deals with Israel while the war in Gaza continued.

Mr Varadkar’s successor, Simon Harris, has spoken to Mr Sanchez about Ireland and Spain recognising Palestine as a state.

Norway, Malta and Slovenia have also signalled that they are considering giving full state status to Palestine.

It is understood two other EU states will recognise Palestine as a state tomorrow morning.

Other like-minded countries are expected to follow in Ireland’s footsteps in the coming weeks but the Government has decided now is the time for Ireland to recognise Palestine.

Recognising a Palestinian state will only strengthen Hamas – Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Coalition is facing into local and European elections in just over three weeks.

The move comes after an International Criminal Court prosecutor sought arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as top Hamas leaders, on suspicion of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Meanwhile, in an online video targeted at Ireland, Israel’s foreign ministry warned that recognising a Palestinian state “will lead to more terrorism” and “jeopardise any prospects for peace”.

The narrator says: “Ireland, the possibility of recognising a Palestinian state risks turning you into a pawn in the hands of Iran and Hamas.

“Such a move will only strengthen Hamas and weaken an already dysfunctional Palestinian authority. The fact that Hamas leaders are thanking you should serve as wake-up call.

“Your actions will only fuel extremism and instability. Progress can only be achieved through direct negotiations within a wider regional context.

“Don’t be pawns in the hands of Hamas. Say no to recognition.”

This article was updated on May 22, 2024. It initially stated in error that the International Criminal Court had issued arrests warrants. The ICC has in fact sought arrest warrants.

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