Irish Prime Minister Reaffirms Support for UNRWA and Calls for Urgent Aid to Gaza
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris has reiterated Ireland’s unwavering support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), emphasizing the need for immediate humanitarian assistance to address the worsening crisis in Gaza.
Speaking at a key meeting in Brussels, Harris highlighted the urgency of increasing aid to the Palestinian population in Gaza. According to the Irish Independent, he underscored UNRWA’s vital role in delivering essential services and called for a substantial boost in international support.
During discussions with international counterparts, including UN officials such as Philippe Lazzarini, Harris stressed the importance of an effective and timely humanitarian response. While reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to UNRWA, he urged European governments and global partners to expedite financial aid to ensure it reaches those in need without bureaucratic delays.
Harris’s remarks reflect growing concerns over administrative obstacles that have hindered the delivery of critical services, particularly for vulnerable Palestinian refugees.
Ireland Joins ICJ Case Against Israel
In January, Ireland officially intervened in South Africa’s genocide case against Israel, reinforcing its stance on alleged violations of the Genocide Convention in Gaza.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) confirmed that Ireland had submitted a declaration of intervention under Article 63 of the ICJ Statute. This provision allows any state party to a convention under judicial review to participate in the proceedings, making the court’s interpretation binding on them as well.
Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin had previously announced the decision following government approval. Ireland joins a growing list of countries—including Nicaragua, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Palestine, Spain, and Türkiye—that have aligned with South Africa’s case, first filed in December 2023.
Ireland Recognizes Palestinian Statehood
On May 22, 2024, Ireland, alongside Norway and Spain, formally recognized Palestine as a state, a diplomatic move welcomed by Hamas and rejected by Israel, which recalled its envoys in response.
Announcing the decision at a press conference, Harris declared:
“Today, Ireland, Norway, and Spain are recognizing the state of Palestine. Each of us will now take the necessary national steps to formalize this decision.”
Drawing parallels with Ireland’s own history, he added:
“Our message to the free nations of the world was once a plea for international recognition of our independence—our unique national identity, our struggle, and our right to self-determination and justice. Today, we use that same language to support Palestine’s recognition as a state.”
This move marks a significant shift in Ireland’s foreign policy and reinforces its long-standing advocacy for Palestinian rights on the global stage.
