[Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced the closure of the country’s embassy in Ireland on Sunday, citing “extreme anti-Israel policies” and accusing the Irish government of anti-Semitism. Sa’ar stated that Israel will now focus on advancing bilateral relations with countries that prioritize relations with Israel and do not engage in anti-Israel actions.
The decision was prompted by Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state and its support for South Africa’s legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the move, saying it was a “victory for anti-Semitism and anti-Israel organizations,” sparking backlash from Sa’ar who accused Lapid of spreading anti-Semitism.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris responded to the decision, stating that it was “deeply regrettable” and that Ireland is “pro-peace, pro-human rights and pro-International law.” Ireland had announced in May that it would formally recognize the State of Palestine, and in response, Israel ordered the immediate recall of its ambassador to Ireland. Dublin had also previously announced its intention to intervene in a genocide case against Israel at the ICJ, reflecting its long-standing position of solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
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