Israel to close embassy in Ireland over 'anti-Israel policies'

Israel says it will close its embassy in Ireland in the coming weeks over the Irish government’s “extreme anti-Israel policies.”

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar took action on Sunday by recalling Israel’s ambassador to Ireland from Dublin. Saar stated that the Irish government had gone too far and had breached important boundaries. He specifically pointed to Ireland’s recent move to acknowledge the existence of a Palestinian state as the catalyst for this decision.

“The actions and anti-semitic rhetoric used by Ireland against Israel are rooted in the de-legitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with double standards,” Saar said.

“Israel will invest its resources in advancing bilateral relations with countries worldwide according to priorities that also take into account the attitudes and actions of these states toward Israel,” he added.

“I believe firmly in the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels of communication and regret that this decision has been taken,” Martin said.

“Ireland’s position on the conflict in the Middle East has always been guided by the principles of international law and the obligation on all states to adhere to international humanitarian law,” he added.

Ireland prime minister Simon Harris

New Irish Prime Minster Simon Harris is greeted by colleagues and family members as he leaves the Dail in Dublin. (Paul Faith/AFP via Getty Images)

The announcement comes as Israel is considering further strikes against Iran this week. Israeli reports on Thursday said the evolving reality in the region has prompted Israel to once again consider targeting Iran’s nuclear program, which Jerusalem and its international allies have deemed one of the greatest emerging threats at a time when tensions between the West and nations like Russia and Iran continue to deteriorate.

The U.S., under the Biden administration, along with its international partners including the International Atomic Energy Agency, have urged Israel not to strike Iran’s nuclear installations. 

Israeli PM Netanyahu speaks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes a televised statement in Israel. (Israeli Government Press Office via AP)

However, last month, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the IDF had hit and degraded part of Iran’s nuclear program during a retaliatory strike in late October, but he warned it was not enough to thwart Tehran’s ability to develop a nuclear weapon.

Fox News’ Caitlin McFall contributed to this report.

You May Also Like
The world leaders who got their phones out and took photos as Pope Francis's coffin was carried away... while others showed their respect 

World leaders take photos as Pope Francis’s coffin is carried away, displaying a range of behaviors to honor him.

After mourners were criticized for taking selfies with the body of Pope…
Chicago crash: Video shows good Samaritans rescue truck driver after rollover crash on I-57 | ABC7 EXCLUSIVE

“Chicago Accident: Video Captures Rescuers Helping Truck Driver After Rollover on I-57 | Exclusive by ABC7”

CHICAGO (WLS) — Exclusive cellphone footage obtained by ABC7 captured the frantic…
WATCH: Indiana man who killed girls on hike strikes defiant tone with police in new interrogation video

Video: Indiana man who murdered girls during hike shows defiance towards police in latest questioning footage

Newly released videos from 2022 reveal Richard Allen, the man from Indiana…
Trump delivers different message on Gaza when recapping call with Netanyahu

Trump discusses contrasting views on Gaza during summary of conversation with Netanyahu

President Donald Trump recently discussed Gaza with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu…
Pope Francis’ last words revealed as Vatican describes his final hours

Expert Says Conclave Differs Significantly from US Elections with Unpredictable Outcomes

With the world bidding farewell to Pope Francis, individuals all over, including…
Mighty and meek attend Pope Francis' funeral in St. Peter's Square, a ceremony he helped reimagine

People from all walks of life gather at St. Peter’s Square to honor the passing of Pope Francis, who played a role in revamping the funeral ceremony.

VATICAN CITY — World leaders and Catholic faithful said their goodbyes to…
Shocking photos show CIA deputy director's son fighting for Russia in Ukraine war before his battlefield death

Startling images reveal son of CIA deputy director fighting for Russia in Ukraine conflict before his tragic death on the battlefield

Pictures show the CIA deputy director’s son who – unbeknownst to his…
I Cannot Believe They Just Did That To Michael Emerson’s Character In The Latest Episode Of ‘Elsbeth’ 

Shocking Development for Michael Emerson’s Character in the Newest ‘Elsbeth’ Episode

It’s safe to say I did not see that one coming. After…
The last days of Virginia Giuffre as Prince Andrew's accuser feared enemies 'were out to get her'

Virginia Giuffre feared for her safety as she accused Prince Andrew of wrongdoing.

Virginia Giuffre had concerns that her adversaries were attempting to tarnish her reputation…
Donald Trump is accused of breaking the dress code at Pope Francis' funeral

Donald Trump allegedly violated the attire rules at the funeral of Pope Francis

Donald Trump has been accused of beaking the dress code at the…
Stagecoach Festival 2025: Lizzo, Lana Del Rey and more

Lineup for Stagecoach Festival 2025: Lizzo, Lana Del Rey and Others

Stagecoach music festival remains amazing with memorable shows from famous artists such…
Illegal migrant arrested for theft of ICE Barbie Kristi Noem's $3k Gucci purse during DC dinner

Unlawful immigrant taken into custody for stealing ICE Barbie Kristi Noem’s $3k Gucci handbag while dining in DC

Police in Washington DC have arrested an illegal immigrant in connection with…