Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar ordered the closure of Israel's embassy in Ireland today, marking a significant downturn in bilateral relations while announcing plans to establish a new diplomatic presence in Moldova.
The decision to shutter the Dublin mission comes in response to what Sa'ar characterized as the Irish government's "extreme anti-Israel policies." The diplomatic relationship had already been strained after Ireland's unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, which prompted Israel to recall its ambassador. Tensions escalated further last week when Ireland announced it would join South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, which accuses Israel of genocide.
"Ireland's antisemitic actions and rhetoric against Israel are rooted in delegitimization and demonization of the Jewish state and reflect clear double standards," Sa'ar said. "Ireland has crossed all red lines in its treatment of Israel. We will redirect our resources toward advancing bilateral relations with countries based on priorities that reflect how different nations relate to Israel."
In contrast, Israel's relationship with Moldova is warm and cooperative, with both countries eager to deepen their diplomatic ties. Moldova already maintains an embassy in Israel, and Sa'ar informed Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi of his decision to establish an Israeli embassy in Chișinău, planned for early 2025. The foreign minister has directed his ministry's director general to secure appropriate premises and initiate the process of appointing an ambassador.
"There are countries interested in strengthening their ties with Israel where we don't yet have diplomatic missions," Sa'ar noted. "We will adjust our diplomatic network while considering, among other factors, different countries' approaches and actions toward Israel in the international arena."
Lior Tibet, an Israeli student who spoke to Israel Hayom in November, emphasized the Irish public largely views Israel as the antagonist in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with political leaders spearheading opposition campaigns, with Ireland being among the most vocal advocates pressing the European Union to reassess its trade agreements with Israel. "Weekly anti-Israel demonstrations feature Hamas and Hezbollah flags, with calls to globalize the intifada," Lior said. "Media coverage remains starkly one-sided. When presented with antisemitic incidents, outlets either ignore them entirely or construct forced 'balanced' coverage that minimizes their significance. This stems from the highest levels – President Michael Higgins dismisses antisemitism claims as Israeli embassy PR stunts," she added.
