LONDON – Ireland will officially recognise the state of Palestine, Prime Minister Simon Harris announced on Wednesday, signaling a significant shift in international diplomacy. Harris stated that he anticipates other countries will follow suit in the coming weeks after his discussions with global leaders.
“Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are announcing that we recognise the state of Palestine,” Harris said at a press conference. “In the lead-up to today’s announcement, I’ve spoken with a number of other leaders and counterparts and I’m confident that further countries will join us in taking this important step in the coming weeks,” he added.
Harris emphasized that a two-state solution remains the only credible path to achieving lasting peace and security for both Israel and Palestine. He noted that the recognition of statehood holds particular significance for Ireland given its own history of seeking international recognition.
“Taking our place on the world stage and being recognised by others as having the right to be there was a matter of the highest importance for the founders of our state,” Harris explained.
He reiterated Ireland’s unequivocal recognition of Israel and its right to exist “securely and in peace with its neighbours,” and called for the immediate return of all hostages in Gaza. Ireland’s recognition of Palestine will be formally enacted on May 28, according to Foreign Minister Micheal Martin, who confirmed the decision on social media platform X.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in Ireland’s foreign policy and could influence other nations to reconsider their positions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The move is expected to bolster efforts towards a peaceful resolution and enhance Ireland’s role in global diplomatic affairs.