We must bring about ceasefire in Gaza before ‘Netanyahu’s next tragic mistake’, Taoiseach tells Dáil

Simon Harris told the Dáil that recognising the state of Palestine is “a proud day for Ireland”

In a statement to the Dáil, as Ireland formally recognises the state of Palestine, Mr Harris said: “I welcome the decision of the Belgian presidency to convene a meeting on the EU-Israel Association Agreement.

“The human rights clauses in that agreement are and must be meaningful and when they’re not being adhered to, that too must have consequences.

“We need to look at all the levers at our disposal to bring about a cessation of violence before Netanyahu’s next tragic mistake.

“Formal recognition of the state of Palestine here today is an act of powerful, political and symbolic value. I hope it sends the Palestinian people a message of hope that in this, their darkest hour Ireland stands with them.

“It is an expression of our view that Palestine holds and should be able to vindicate the full rights of the state, including self-determination, self-governance, territorial integrity and…