Diplomatic Breakdown as Israel Shuts Embassy in Dublin
Israel has officially closed its embassy in Ireland, citing what it called Dublin’s “extreme anti-Israel policies” in response to the ongoing war in Gaza. The move marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the two nations, as Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused the Irish government of crossing diplomatic red lines.
What’s Behind the Worsening Israel-Ireland Relations
The relationship between Ireland and Israel has been on thin ice for months. Back in May 2024, Ireland joined Spain and Norway in formally recognizing Palestine as a state — a move that immediately prompted Israel to recall its ambassador from Dublin. Things took another turn when Ireland recently backed South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the country of committing atrocities in Gaza. Israel has flatly denied the allegations.
Israeli officials have condemned Ireland’s stance as an overstep into national security matters. But Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin insists Ireland’s position is rooted in human rights and international law — not hostility toward Israel.
Airstrikes Intensify in Gaza
On the ground, the violence continues. Over the weekend, Israeli airstrikes pounded northern Gaza, reportedly killing at least 30 people, including women and children. One of the strikes hit the Khalil Aweida school in Beit Hanoun, killing 15 civilians, while further attacks in Gaza City left at least 17 dead.
The Israeli military said it was targeting Hamas militants and infrastructure. But health officials and human rights groups say the civilian toll is rising rapidly. Among the victims was Palestinian journalist Ahmed al-Lawh, who was killed while reporting from the Nuseirat refugee camp.
A Mounting Humanitarian Crisis
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, nearly 45,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict reignited in October 2023. Most of the victims are civilians, and the humanitarian situation is rapidly deteriorating. The UN has warned that continuous airstrikes, combined with Hamas attacks, have created conditions that could lead to an unprecedented humanitarian disaster.
The current conflict began when Hamas launched a massive assault on southern Israel on October 7, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 200 hostages. Israel responded with a full-scale military campaign aimed at eliminating Hamas from Gaza.
Ireland Responds to Embassy Closure
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed regret over Israel’s decision, calling it “deeply unfortunate.” He reaffirmed that Ireland’s foreign policy is “pro-peace, pro-human rights, and grounded in international law.”
As the death toll climbs and diplomatic tensions grow, Israel is facing mounting pressure from European governments and international organizations to be more transparent and accountable for the civilian impact of its military actions.
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