Statement on Palestine from Irish Prime Minister Harris

Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris made statements in Longford, where he attended a commemoration event for the Great Famine that took place between 1845 and 1852.

According to reports in the Irish media, Harris addressed the remarks made by Israeli President Isaac Herzog, whom he spoke with on Friday, that Ireland's recognition of the Palestinian state would risk the possibility of Hamas releasing hostages.

Noting that Ireland's recognition of Palestine is not a unilateral decision, Harris expressed that he did not wish to engage in a back-and-forth dispute with Herzog.

Explaining that the meeting took place within a framework of respect, Harris said, "As Prime Minister, it is my duty to express Ireland's position and to speak on behalf of the Irish people."

"A TRAGEDY BEFORE OUR EYES"

Stating that Ireland's position on the Middle East, Gaza, and Israel is clear, Harris said, "There is an urgent need for the violence to stop and for humanitarian aid to reach the area without obstruction, because a humanitarian tragedy is unfolding before our eyes."

Using the phrase "We need a two-state solution," Harris pointed out that for this to happen, the existence of both states must be accepted. Harris added that "In the coming days, Ireland intends to do this," noting that Ireland is working with like-minded countries.

"WANTS THEIR CHILDREN TO HAVE ACCESS TO FOOD"

Pointing out that Ireland does not want tension in its relations with Israel, Harris said, "Ireland does not want diplomatic relations to become strained. You can have disagreements with a country; there can be a difference between a country's government and its people. I believe that in Israel, just as in Palestine, there are many people who want to live in peace, security, and prosperity, and who want their children to have access to food."

Harris also shared his belief that his own perspective and Ireland's stance would bring peace, stability, and prosperity to the region.

Responding to a question regarding Ireland's timeline for recognizing the Palestinian state, Harris said the following:

"There is a system that Ireland must follow with other countries. The political processes that need to be followed vary from country to country. We will decide on the specific day in the coming days. Our intention is to recognize the Palestinian state this month, and there are not many days left."

News Source: 12punto