Ireland has consistently and strongly opposed settlements and will continue to do so. Settlement expansion, demolitions and evictions threaten the viability of a two-state solution.
On my recent visit to the occupied Palestinian territory, I saw the impact that settlements are having on Palestinian communities and on the viability of a future Palestinian State. I am particularly concerned about developments in strategically sensitive areas around East Jerusalem. I know from my own contacts, including from my recent visit, that there remains a body of support among a range of actors in Israel for a two-State solution. I am keen to work constructively with all parties, including those of differing views, in our efforts to underline why the viability of the two-State solution remains important.
Ireland has expressed serious concern in relation to the recent announcements by Israeli authorities of plans for the construction of more than 3,000 settlement units in the West Bank. On 28 October, Ireland joined 11 other European states in issuing a statement urging the Israeli authorities to reverse the decision.
I have been clear that, in recognition of the lack of progress towards a two-State solution, I would be prepared to recommend to the Government early recognition by Ireland of a State of Palestine, if and when it might be helpful.
Recognition by Ireland outside the context of an overall peace agreement would, however, be likely to affect Ireland’s influence on the Israel-Palestine conflict at EU and international level. Timing and context would affect whether such a loss of influence would be matched by a commensurate benefit for the Palestinian people and a positive impact on the peace process and a two-State solution.
