Israel Accuses Ireland of Rewarding Terrorism After Recognizing Palestine

Israel has accused Ireland of endorsing terrorism following Ireland’s official recognition of the State of Palestine.

In a post on X, Israeli foreign minister Israel Katz tagged Irish Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Simon Harris and said, “Hamas thanks you for your service.”

Katz stated, “Ireland, if your goal is to reward terrorism by declaring support for a Palestinian state, you’ve achieved it.”

The post included a video montage featuring clips purported to be of Hamas, interspersed with scenes of Irish dancing, accompanied by traditional Irish music.

https://x.com/Israel_katz/status/1793543828630340083?t=HY0czFOKl_BPQ7PeZ2ydAw&s=19

Katz announced the recall of Israel’s ambassadors in Ireland and Norway “for consultations” after both countries officially recognised Palestine as a state.

He described the European countries’ actions as “distorted,” arguing that it sends the message that “terrorism pays.” Katz warned of “further severe consequences” following these decisions.

Irish diplomats in Israel are expected to face various restrictions. Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported that the Israeli government will no longer facilitate travel into Gaza or the West Bank for diplomats from countries like Ireland that unilaterally recognise the State of Palestine.

Additionally, these diplomats will be isolated from briefings and requests from Israel.

Ireland’s Ambassador to Israel, Sonya McGuinness, was summoned by the Israeli State for a démarche, essentially a formal reprimand from the Tel Aviv government.