Ireland joins Norway and Spain in recognising Palestine as independent state

Ireland will formally recognise the state of Palestine

Following months of consultation with countries across Europe and the Middle East, Ireland is joining Spain and Norway in this ground-breaking decision.

Speaking this morning, Taoiseach Simon Harris said:

“Ireland today recognises Palestine as a nation among nations with all the rights and responsibilities that entails. 

“Ireland has for many decades recognised the State of Israel and its right to exist in peace and security.”

He went on to say: “We had hoped to recognise Palestine as part of a two-state peace deal but instead we recognise Palestine to keep the hope of that two-state solution alive. 

“Ireland’s dream is that the Israeli and Palestinian children of May 28th 2024 will grow up to be neighbours at peace. 

“Both the Palestinian and Israeli people are inherently kind and decent. The only way to stop war and death is by tapping into those qualities in both nations. 

“We want to thank and are honoured to recognise Palestine at the same time as our friends in Spain and Norway. We are hopeful others will do the same in the next wave.”

Tánaiste Micheál Martin added:

“Today’s decision to recognise the State of Palestine on May 28th is a historic moment for Ireland. 

“It is our deeply-held belief that there can be no peace in the Middle East until the Israeli and Palestinian people alike enjoy the same rights to self-determination, statehood, peace, security and dignity. 

“Recognition of Palestine is not the end of a process; it is the beginning. It is our conviction that the two-State solution remains the only viable option to secure a just and lasting peace, and a better future. 

“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.“