London [UK], December 24: Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris has pledged to continue direct relations with Israel on attaining a ceasefire in Gaza, after the Israeli embassy in Dublin announced it would close.
In a phone call with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Monday, Harris reiterated his demand for a lasting ceasefire, the free flow of humanitarian aid in Gaza and the release of hostages.
Earlier, Israel announced it would close its embassy in Dublin, with the Israeli foreign minister accusing Ireland of "anti-Semitic rhetoric". Harris accused Israel of "distracting" away from the deaths of children. The prime minister pledged that Ireland will "use its voice and influence at every opportunity in every international forum it can," including with direct bilateral relations with Israel and Palestine, to bring about a ceasefire and to "start to rebuild shattered lives." (PA Media/dpa)
Source: Qatar Tribune
