Ireland Faces Israeli Criticism Over Taoiseach’s Gaza Hostage Omission and Palestinian State Recognition Plans

Israel’s foreign ministry has criticized Taoiseach Simon Harris for omitting any mention of the hostages held by militants in Gaza during a speech to the Dáil on Tuesday.

Israel is also displeased with Ireland’s plans to recognize a Palestinian state and its involvement in the genocide case brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

According to Israel’s foreign ministry, Mr. Harris “forgot” to address the 133 Israeli hostages held in Hamas tunnels for the past six months.

Israel accused Ireland of potentially supporting terrorism by considering recognition of a Palestinian state and backing South Africa, which is regarded as the legal arm of Hamas, according to Rte. ie.

The foreign ministry emphasized that Ireland’s stance is “on the wrong side of history” following recent tragic events for Jews, likening it to silence in the face of historical atrocities.

In response, Mr Harris highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza during his Dáil speech, condemning the actions of Hamas and criticizing the Israeli government’s reaction as disproportionate.

The Department of Foreign Affairs announced on March 27 its intention to intervene at the International Court of Justice, citing violations of international humanitarian law, including the taking of hostages, since October 7 in Israel and Gaza.

During his upcoming meetings with senior EU leaders in Brussels and Warsaw, the Taoiseach is expected to advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and address the humanitarian catastrophe there.

Mr Harris’s itinerary includes meetings with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola in Brussels, and European Council President Charles Michel in Warsaw. He will also participate in a summit in Warsaw alongside several other European leaders.

The Taoiseach plans to use these opportunities to highlight Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, reiterating Ireland’s call for an immediate ceasefire and urging all aid routes to be opened.

In related discussions, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin disclosed discussions with the Spanish Foreign Minister regarding recognizing the state of Palestine. Mr. Martin indicated a formal proposal on this matter pending broader international talks.

This exchange followed calls from Labour leader Ivana Bacik to enact the Occupied Territories Bill to end trade between Ireland and the Occupied Territories.

However, Mr Martin cited EU competency in trade matters, advising that enacting the bill would be unlawful.

Ms. Bacik, a barrister, argued for legal provisions to support enacting the legislation, citing comments from UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese urging action to align words with deeds.

Mr Martin responded by affirming measures taken by Ireland and highlighting issues with the UN rapporteur’s approach. He also refuted claims of weapons passing through Shannon Airport en route to Israel, citing stringent restrictions and a lack of applications for such transports in recent years.