Taoiseach cautions that expelling Israel’s ambassador would undermine Ireland’s influence in the Israel-Hamas conflict

Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has warned against the proposed expulsion of Israel’s ambassador to Ireland, Dana Erlich, stating that such a move would significantly diminish Ireland’s ability to influence the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The warning comes as calls from opposition parties, including Sinn Féin, have grown louder in response to the violence in Gaza.

Varadkar argued that revoking the ambassador’s diplomatic credentials would be counterproductive, especially as Ireland works to assist Irish citizens in Gaza, including the potential hostage release of Israeli-Irish girl Emily Hand. He explained that cutting diplomatic ties would hinder efforts to secure safe passage for Irish nationals and impede future negotiations for peace.

During a discussion in the Dáil, Varadkar expressed his concerns about the escalation of the conflict, fearing that it could widen to involve other regional powers such as Hezbollah. He also raised alarm over the staggering death toll, particularly the high number of children and civilians affected by the violence.

The Taoiseach emphasized Ireland’s role in advocating for a humanitarian ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of aid and the safe release of hostages. He also clarified that the Government had no intention of expelling the Israeli ambassador, asserting that even countries at war retain their diplomatic representatives. Varadkar cited the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as an example, noting that the UK and other nations had not expelled Russia’s ambassador despite their strong support for Ukraine.

Regarding the European Union’s stance, Varadkar noted that while Ireland has called for de-escalation, there is no EU consensus on suspending the Israel-EU trade deal or barring Israel from the Horizon Europe research initiative. He highlighted the divergent opinions within the EU, with member states such as Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic maintaining differing perspectives based on their own national experiences with terrorism.

In response to Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns’ call for stronger EU actions, Varadkar reiterated that Ireland was working within the EU framework to push for a humanitarian ceasefire and de-escalation, while advocating for continued dialogue and efforts to end the conflict.