Israel announced on Sunday the closure of its embassy in Ireland, citing what it described as Dublin’s “extreme anti-Israel policies.” The move marks a significant decline in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The decision follows Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state, its support for an International Court of Justice (ICJ) case accusing Israel of “genocide” in Gaza, and its sharp criticism of Israel’s military response to Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attacks.
In a statement, Israel’s foreign ministry explained the closure, saying, “This decision was made in light of the extreme anti-Israel policies of the Irish government.”
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Ireland of engaging in “actions and antisemitic rhetoric” that demonize Israel and impose double standards. “Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel,” Saar said.
Tensions spiked further in November when Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris declared that Irish authorities would detain Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited the country. The statement followed an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant for alleged “crimes against humanity and war crimes” committed in Gaza between October 2023 and May 2024.
As part of its shifting diplomatic strategy, Israel simultaneously announced the opening of a new embassy in Moldova, signaling a focus on strengthening ties with other nations amid strained relations with Ireland.
