Live: Ireland to formally recognise Palestinian state | Westmeath Independent

Source: Westmeath Independent

Live: Ireland to formally recognise Palestinian state RSS Syndicated Content Published: Wed 22 May 2024, 8:15 AM Last updated: Wed 22 May 2024, 8:31 AM

Ireland is to formally recognise the state of Palestine, Taoiseach Simon Harris has confirmed.

Speaking outside Government Buildings in Dublin on Wednesday morning, Mr Harris said Ireland will now take "what national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision".

Similar action is also to be taken by Spain and Norway.

Mr Harris added: "It is a statement of unequivocal support for a two-state solution, the only credible path to peace and security for Israel, for Palestine and for their peoples."

The Taoiseach said it is "long past time for a ceasefire" between Israel and Hamas, calling for a release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas on October 7th, and an end to the Israeli offensive in Rafah.

He added that Palestinians in Gaza are enduring "the most appalling suffering, hardship and starvation", but said civilians on all sides must be protected by international humanitarian law.

Mr Harris said the Palestinian people "deserve a future full of hope", adding: "We see you, we recognise you, we respect you."

Tánaiste Micheál Martin confirmed the decision will formally take effect on May 28th.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan added that Ireland also recognises Israel and its entitlement to protect its people.

Following warnings from Israel that recognition of a Palestinian state would "fuel extremism and instability", Mr Ryan stressed the decision is "not an endorsement of Hamas".

More to follow...

RSS Syndicated Content Published: Wed 22 May 2024, 8:15 AM Last updated: Wed 22 May 2024, 8:31 AM