Ireland set to recognise the state of Palestine: Prime Minister Simon Harris

DUBLIN: The Republic of Ireland Prime Minister (PM) Simon Harris indicated that his country may formally recognise the state of Palestine by the end of this month on Monday.

Speaking at a ceremony in Longford commemorating the country’s historical famine, the Irish PM reiterated Ireland’s stance on the Middle East conflict. He stated that there was an urgent need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza.

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Harris stated that the two-state solution was the inevitable path towards resolving the conflict. He pointed to the ongoing consultations with like-minded countries regarding Ireland recognition of the state of Palestine.

The Irish PM said that while Ireland seeks to acknowledge Palestine’s statehood, it does not intend to strain relations with Israel.

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Harris said that his country desired peace, security, and prosperity in the region. The Irish prime minister expressed confidence that the majority of both Israeli and Palestinian populations aspire to live in such an environment.

Previously, the Irish Foreign Minister Michael Martin had condemned Israel’s atrocities in the Gaza Strip. The Irish FM accused Israel of targeting civilians and public infrastructure. He also expressed concern over the widespread destruction caused by the conflict.

Martin had criticised Israel for indiscriminately using firepower against unarmed civilians in populated areas. He also pointed to the International Court of Justice’s (CIJ) ruling that deemed Israel’s actions as constituting genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Despite the latest International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor’s ruling, Israel’s aggression has continued, with its staunchest allies Germany and the United States defending it.

More than 37,000 Palestinians have lost their lives to Israel’s brutality since since October 2023.