Ireland has officially recognized the State of Palestine, Prime Minister Simon Harris announced today May 21st, emphasizing that “it is never the wrong time to do the right thing.”
At a press conference prior to the formal declaration, Harris stated, “Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are announcing that we recognize the State of Palestine. I’m confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks.”
The announcement was made by the three key leaders of the Irish government—Prime Minister Simon Harris, Deputy Premier Micheál Martin, and Minister Eamon Ryan—who held a joint press conference to unveil the decision.
Deputy Premier Micheál Martin articulated the principles behind this move, saying, “The principle of equality is the foundation for justice, for peaceful coexistence, and for a better future. And that is why today, with this principle under concerted attack across the Middle East, we have taken this step.”
Martin also reaffirmed Ireland’s support for both Israel and Palestine, stating, “We unequivocally support the right of the State of Israel to exist and the right of the Israeli people to peaceful self-determination, just as we unequivocally support the right of the State of Palestine to exist, and the right of the Palestinian people to peaceful self-determination.”
This recognition comes amidst Israel’s ongoing bombing campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in the killing of over 35,500 Palestinians and left much of the enclave in ruins.
Ireland expressed hope that recognizing the State of Palestine would advance the peace process and help end Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. “To realize that aim, we believe that the parties must, in the future, meet as equals – as two states, with the responsibility to come to a final settlement in direct negotiations,” Martin explained.
“Recognition of Palestine is not the end of a process; it is the beginning,” he added. “I will also continue to work tirelessly on the immediate priority of securing a ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of hostages, and full, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access. There is a long road ahead.”
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