Peeking through Dublin’s diplomatic district you’ll find the Embassy of Israel. It stands as a testament to a complex and evolving relationship between Ireland and Israel. The Embassy of Israel is located at 23 Shelbourne Road.
Ireland’s formal recognition of Israel happened in 1963. But full diplomatic relations weren’t established until 1975. The Embassy of Israel itself didn’t open its doors in Dublin until December 20, 1993. Zvi Gabay was the first resident Israeli ambassador to Ireland.
But the story of the Embassy of Israel isn’t without its tensions. In 1981 Ireland condemned Israel’s attack on Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor.
State papers reveal that in 1992 government ministers voiced strong objections to opening the Embassy of Israel. Minister for finance Bertie Ahern said the security implications would cost £700000 annually. He said it would require 16 gardaí for security. Minister for industry and commerce Des O’Malley said there was a likelihood of significant losses of trade with Arab countries if an Israeli embassy was opened in Ireland. Tánaiste and minister for defence John Wilson said Irish troops on UN peacekeeping duties in south Lebanon were subjected to harassment by Israeli-based militia.
More recently in December 2024 Israel announced the embassy’s closure. The Israeli foreign minister cited what he called Irish “demonisation of the Jewish state” during the Israel–Hamas war. Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris firmly rejected the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel. He stated that Ireland is pro-peace pro-human rights and pro-international law.
The Tánaiste Micheál Martin spoke about the continuation of the war in Gaza. He said the loss of innocent lives is simply unacceptable and contravenes international law. He added that it represents the collective punishment of the Palestinian people in Gaza.
The closure sparked considerable debate and protest. Demonstrations have occurred outside the Embassy of Israel. In October 2023 two men were arrested during a large protest outside the embassy. Protesters shouted “Palestine will be free” lit flares and waved Palestinian flags.
The Hindu reported that Israel’s Foreign Minister accused Ireland of “anti-Semitic rhetoric” and of crossing “every red line” in their relations. The article also mentioned that Ireland joined Spain and Norway in recognising the state of Palestine in May 2024.
Despite these challenges the Embassy of Israel has stood as a symbol of diplomatic ties. It reflects the ongoing dialogue and sometimes strained relationship between Ireland and Israel. As of now the future of the building remains uncertain. There have been rumours about converting it into a museum of Palestine. The location remains a focal point for discussions about international relations peace and human rights.