Ireland is prepared to recognize a Palestinian state, and is working with other countries both within and outside of the EU to do so, according to the new Irish Prime Minister, Simon Harris, in his first TV interview since he entered the office.
Speaking on Tuesday to CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, Harris said that, “If you believe that a political solution must bring about a two-state solution, I think a very good starting point is recognizing that there are two states.”
"Ireland is extraordinarily clear in its condemnation of Hamas…[& for] the right of Israel…to live in safety & security. But we also believe that reason has now been replaced by revenge"I spoke with @SimonHarrisTD, his first TV interview as Taoiseach. Watch our full interview pic.twitter.com/AohIoIiMT8
— Christiane Amanpour (@amanpour) April 16, 2024
“We recognize, obviously, the State of Israel,” he said. “We recognize the right of Israel to live in peace and safety and security in that region, and we also believe that alongside a secure and safe Israel should be a secure, peaceful, and safe Palestine.”
In the interview, Harris condemned Iran’s attack on Israel Saturday night, and called for restraint in Israel’s response.
Ireland has said it will get involved in ICJ case
Harris also condemned Hamas’s October 7 attack and called for the unconditional release of those held hostage in Gaza. Harris also called for a ceasefire.
Ireland is one of the most pro-Palestinian nations in the West. In March, Ireland announced it would get involved in South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice alleging a genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
Micheál Martin, the Irish Foreign Minister, said the government would argue that blocking humanitarian aid may constitute genocidal intent.