Israel

Israel to Close Embassy in Ireland Over Alleged Antisemitism

Published DEC 16 2024

Story

Above: Floral tributes and images of those kidnapped or missing following the Oct. 7 attack outside the Israeli Embassy in Dublin. Image credit: Niall Carson/Contributor/PA Images via Getty Images

The Facts

Israel has ordered the closure of its embassy in Dublin over Ireland's alleged "extreme anti-Israel policies," including supporting South Africa's genocide case against Israel in the International Court of Justice.
BBC News
guardian
Ireland, which officially recognizes the Palestinian state, reportedly seeks to expand the ICJ's definition of genocide, alleging "collective punishment" in Gaza by Israel.
Sky News
Independent
In May, Israel recalled its envoy to Ireland. On Sunday, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said Dublin's moves were based on "delegitimization and demonization of the Jewish state."
NPR Online News
Timesofisrael
Israel hasn't pulled its envoys from Egypt, Spain, and Mexico — nations that also support the petition linked to breaches of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in Gaza.
guardian
RTE.ie
In response, Ireland said its stand "has always been guided by the principles of international law" and doesn't plan to close its embassy in Israel.
Gov.Ie
Saudigazette

Sources Split

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RIGHT

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The Spin

Narrative A

Israel's decision stems from a deep-rooted pattern of anti-Israeli sentiment in Ireland. From political rhetoric to sporting snubs, Ireland has consistently displayed hostility towards Israel, transforming historical solidarity into modern-day antagonism. The broader Irish political landscape's anti-Israeli stance has made diplomatic relations untenable.

The Jerusalem Post

National Review

Narrative B

Ireland's stance follows profound moral outrage at Israel's actions in Gaza. With 71% of Ireland's population believing that Palestinians live under apartheid and the government condemning disproportionate military retaliation, Dublin sees itself as championing international humanitarian law and justice. It's a principled rejection of Israel's "rogue state" behavior.

Arab News

Amnesty International Ireland