Why do Irish people resolutely support Palestinian cause?

Ireland stands out in EU as fierce defender of Palestinian rights. Irish people’s steadfast support for Palestinian cause, from grassroots to highest echelons of power, exemplifies profound sense of empathy and shared history.

Majority of the Irish people believe Israel is more akin to a colonial entity forcibly established by British influence, determined to assert itself over an indigenous population. This perspective solidified after 1967, particularly with Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. The land seizures and military rule reminded the Irish of their own history under British repression.

This shared experience has created a strong bond between the two nations, united by a common quest for justice and freedom. This connection continues to influence international discourse and advocacy for Palestinian rights. In 1980, Ireland became the first EU member to support the establishment of a Palestinian state. Subsequent events, such as meetings with Yasser Arafat, the expulsion of an Israeli diplomat in 2010, and the attempt to transport aid to Gaza in the face of a blockade, further demonstrate Ireland’s stance.

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In recent years, both houses of the Irish parliament have passed a motion calling for the recognition of the state of Palestine, though it remains in legislative limbo. The 2018 occupied territories bill, yet to pass its final stages, seeks to prohibit trade and economic support for illegal settlements in occupied territories. While there is some pro-Israel sentiment on the political right, overall, there is a consensus in Ireland in favor of supporting Palestine.

James Quigley, a representative of the Belfast Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC), drew parallels between Ireland’s own history of colonial struggle and the plight of the Palestinians.

“The people of Ireland have a proud history of the colonial struggle … So we know what it’s like to struggle against an occupation, struggle against that oppression.”

“But at the same time, what we suffered is nowhere comparable to what the Palestinians have suffered for the past 75 years with apartheid occupation, ethnic cleansing, murder,” he underlined.

“The Irish love the people of Palestine. I think for us, and even for me, personally, I see their struggle as a fight for humanity. It’s like the defining issue of our time.

“It was apartheid in South Africa and we beat that. It’s apartheid in Israel and with the strength of Palestinians and our solidarity, we’ll beat that as well,” he explained.

This support from Ireland is not just political; it is a call for a broader international coalition against the injustices faced by the Palestinian people. The voices from Ireland underscore that this is not merely a political matter but a humanitarian issue of utmost importance.