Ireland ready to act unilaterally on trade restrictions with Israel over occupied territories
The government of Ireland, led by Taoiseach Simon Harris, has made it clear that the country is willing to act unilaterally to restrict trade involving products originating from Israel occupied territories. This stance is based on a recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which declared Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem illegal and urged countries to take measures to address the situation.
Speaking to the media in Brussels, Harris emphasized that Ireland “will not wait for the rest of Europe to act” on the issue of trade with Israel, citing the urgent need for stronger measures in response to human rights violations. This announcement aligns with a joint appeal by Ireland and Spain, which have been pushing the European Union to review the EU-Israel Association Agreement, arguing that Israel is not complying with the human rights clauses stipulated in the deal.
Ireland’s decision, which is still pending legal advice from its Attorney General, signals a significant shift in European foreign policy, as trade is typically managed jointly. However, Harris noted that the current situation demands decisive actions, and Ireland is prepared to explore legal avenues that allow it to take steps independently. He emphasized that any measures taken would align with international legal obligations, underscoring a moral commitment to ending what he described as an illegal occupation.
This stance also reflects a coordinated effort by Spain and Ireland to encourage the European Union to use all its diplomatic and economic resources to pressure Israel. While the EU has yet to reach a consensus on suspending the trade agreement with Israel, the persistent advocacy from these nations could influence future decisions by the European Commission.
