Video: Celebrations in Dublin as Israel Closes Its Embassy in Ireland
Dublin (Quds News Network)- Thousands gathered in Dublin to celebrate Israel’s decision to close its embassy in Ireland. The announcement followed rising tensions between Ireland and the occupation state over Ireland’s pro-Palestinian stance.
In a large hall in Dublin, attendees waved Palestinian and Irish flags. Videos shared on social media captured people from diverse backgrounds celebrating the embassy closure together.
Irish people celebrate on the occasion of shutting down the Israeli embassy in Dublin. pic.twitter.com/xIslvRsqfk
— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) December 22, 2024
Simultaneously, Irish citizens gathered outside the Israeli embassy as workers lowered the Israeli flag in preparation for the closure.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced the embassy’s closure last week. He cited Ireland’s “extreme anti-Israel policies,” including its recognition of Palestine and support for legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its genocide in Gaza.
Irish leaders rejected Sa’ar’s accusations. Prime Minister Simon Harris called the decision “regrettable” and dismissed claims of antisemitism. “Ireland is pro-peace, pro-human rights, and pro-international law,” Harris stated.
Harris also criticized Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza. Since October 7, Ireland has repeatedly condemned Israeli attacks on civilians in Gaza. The Irish public has held numerous demonstrations in solidarity with Palestinians, calling for an end to the war.
In May, Ireland joined Spain and Norway in officially recognizing Palestine. Last week, Dublin announced it would intervene at the ICJ to support South Africa’s genocide case against Israel. Ireland’s foreign ministry stated that Israel is practicing collective punishment in Gaza.
Israel criticized Ireland for rejecting the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which conflates antisemitism with anti-Zionism, or criticism of historical and current Israeli government policies.
