IR Scholars

— by Mahmud Novruzov —

The Israeli-Palestinian war has had a negative impact on many areas, including Israeli-Irish relations. The countries of the world took different positions in this war. Some countries support Israel and some support Palestine. Ireland has had some problems in relations with Israel because it strongly supports Palestine. Ireland has demanded the imposition of sanctions for several war crimes committed by Israel during the war. Due to Ireland being a member of the European Union, its policies led to a breakdown in relations between the European Union and Israel. Relations have been further strained by Ireland’s recent announcement that it will officially recognize Palestine as a state. International recognition of Palestine is considered a positive development for them. This will lead to them gathering more partners in the war.

Spain has expressed its support for Ireland’s decision. In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that Spain’s support for Palestine was unacceptable and that Israel would have problems in its relations with Spain. Italy, in turn, criticized Israel’s harsh attitude towards these states and emphasized that Israel has only earned hatred for itself. In addition, Norway also did not welcome these steps by Israel and announced that it would recognize Palestine as a state. 

There have been several talks between Irish and Israeli representatives on this issue. While the representatives of both states emphasize the importance of reaching compromises in long-term negotiations, Israel strongly condemns Ireland’s position on this war. In Ireland, a group of civil servants proposed to the parliament regarding the deportation of Israel’s ambassador to Ireland, Dana Ehrlich. Discussions on this issue were held in the Parliament. There were some disagreements among those who participated in the voting. As a result, this decision was not made. The adoption of this decision could completely destroy Irish-Israeli relations.

Ireland is more positive about addressing this problem in the early stages. Corporate business plans with Israel are being put forward in several areas, especially in the field of trade. Considering that Israel’s army is on the list of the most powerful armies, cooperation with this country in the military field is also in the spotlight. Ireland intends to supply its military with Israeli drones.

Unfortunately, despite all efforts, relations between the countries still remain tense. Even Israel intends to close the Irish embassy. At the same time, the Israeli ambassador in Dublin was recalled.