RAJIV GANDHI NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF LAW

“EXAMINING IRELAND’S NEUTRALITY: A COMPARATIVE FOCUS ON FOREIGN

POLICY INTERVENTION WITH THE CASE OF PALESTINE”

Political Science Project: 2nd Semester

SUBMITTED BY Natasha Mittal and Amishi Jain

SECTION B and C

ROLL NO. 23117 and 23245

SUBMITTED TO Mr. Sourav Kumar, Ms. Aditi Dubey

Assistant Professor of Political Science
 Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Contents

1. DECLARATION .........................................................................................................................3

2. SUPERVISOR’S CERTIFICATE ..................................................................................................4

3. ACKNOWLEDGMENT ...............................................................................................................5

4. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................6

5. LITERATURE REVIEW .....................................................................................................8

6. IRELAND’S FOREIGN POLICY AND DIPLOMACY ................................................. 11

7. The Irish Struggle for Independence and Military Neutrality .................................................... 11

8. Challenges to Neutrality: Ethical and Ideological Issues ............................................................. 12

9. IRELAND AND THE CASE FOR PALESTINE .............................................................14

10. History .............................................................................................................................................. 14

11. Ireland’s Post-Colonial Identity Crisis .......................................................................................... 14

12. Ireland’s ‘Support’ .......................................................................................................................... 15

13. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF IRELAND’S FOREIGN POLICIES AND SOUTH

AFRICA IN CONTEXT TO PALESTINE ISSUE ...........................................................17

14. Ireland and South Africa’s Historical Roots ................................................................................. 17

15. Two-State Solution as a Cornerstone ............................................................................................. 18

16. South Africa’s Evolving Stance: From Partnership to Criticism ................................................ 19

17. Diplomacy and Implications ...............................................................................................21

18. Implications of Considering Palestine as a State .......................................................................... 21

19. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................23

_______________________________________________________________________________
Page 2 of 23
 Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the project report entitled “Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative
Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine” submitted to Rajiv Gandhi
National University of Law, Punjab, Patiala is an outcome of my original work carried out under
the supervision of Mr. Sourav Kumar and Ms. Aditi Dubey. The project is entirely based on my
own research work and has not been submitted elsewhere. All the ideas and references have been
duly acknowledged. To the best of my understanding, the project is free from plagiarism.

Natasha Mittal and Amishi Jain

Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Patiala

_______________________________________________________________________________
Page 3 of 23
 Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

SUPERVISOR’S CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project assignment entitled “Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A
Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine” submitted to
Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, is a research work carried out by NATASHA MITTAL
and AMISHI JAIN under my supervision and guidance for further evaluation.

Mr. Sourav Kumar

Ms. Aditi Dubey

(Asst. Professor of Political Science)

Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab,

Patiala

20/3/2024

_______________________________________________________________________________
Page 4 of 23
 Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

On completion of this project, it is my present privilege to acknowledge my heartfelt gratitude

and indebtedness towards my teacher for their valuable suggestions. His precious guidance and
unrelenting support kept me on the right path throughout the whole project and very much
thankful to my teachers in-charge and project coordinators for giving me this relevant and
knowledgeable topic.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to my teacher Assistant Professor SOURAV KUMAR for
her guidance and encouragement in carrying out this project work.

I also wish to express my thanks to my batch mates my friends for their ideas because of which
this project became more captivating. I am also thankful to my institution library for providing a
broad range of books to learn more.

Natasha Mittal and Amishi Jain

_______________________________________________________________________________
Page 5 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTION

In the complex landscape of global politics, the principle of neutrality stands as one of the
cornerstones towards principled diplomacy and sovereign autonomy of a country. Ireland, has
a long established principle of military neutrality since the Second World War because of its
aim to assert its independence from Britain in terms of foreign policy. As a result, it has
protected itself from both cold and hot wars and preserved its territorial integrity and
sovereignty. But the question of whether neutrality and foreign policy engagement are
compatible is becoming more and more relevant as the world struggles with complicated
conflicts and humanitarian crisis. In this paper, we shall delve into Ireland’s historical
commitment to neutrality, dissecting its foreign policy interventions with a specific focus on
the case of Palestine. Through a comparative lens, we juxtapose Ireland’s approach with that
of South Africa’s to one of the longest-running conflicts of our time, which is the Israel-
Palestine conflict, illuminating the different routes these countries have chosen.

Over the 20th and into the 21st century, Ireland has remained staunch in its non-alignment
position, refusing to join any military alliances and staying out of international conflicts. But,
neutrality is a dynamic term that changes in response to changing moral imperatives and global
dynamics. Ireland’s stance on the Israel-Palestine issue is one such area where its neutrality
has come under scrutiny and discussion. For many years, the international community has been
gripped by the Israel-Palestine conflict, which is among the longest-lasting and polarizing
conflicts of the contemporary age. Ireland, a nation that has experienced colonization and
independence struggles of its own, finds great resonance in the Palestinian cause and draws
comparisons to its own national struggle. Ireland’s perspective on the Israel-Palestine conflict
is further complicated by its cordial relationship with Israel. Though, Ireland has voiced
criticism of Israeli policies, it also keeps diplomatic and commercial relations with Israel,
demonstrating the practical factors that frequently guide foreign policy choices. It is difficult
to strike a balance between these conflicting interests, and it is unclear how much Ireland can
stick to its neutrality while interacting with the conflict’s parties.

The conflict has presented challenging dilemmas for policymakers around the world because
it is rooted in conflicting identity and national narratives, territorial disputes, and the desire for
self-determination. Although neutrality is frequently viewed as pragmatic for small nations like
Ireland when engaging in the complex world of international politics, it also raises concerns

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 6 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

about the moral obligations of states to act morally in the midst of humanitarian disasters and
violations of human rights. With a history of defending human rights and the right to self-
determination, Ireland has always been at crossroads with the idea of how to balance its moral
commitments and neutrality in the face of abuses of human rights and humanitarian disasters.
This research aims to clarify the complexities and conflicts inherent in Ireland’s foreign policy
posture by contrasting its approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict with its larger principles of
neutrality.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 7 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

LITERATURE REVIEW

Ireland has historically maintained a ‘neutral’ standpoint in terms of foreign policies. This
differs from the pre-existing ‘Non-Alignment Movement’, which several countries adopted
during World War II.

Neutrality is a concept that originated in the 19th century, but was institutionalized during the
Hague Convention of 1907. Neutrality, according to Article VII is that a neutral power is not
called upon to prevent the export or transport, on behalf of any belligerent, of anything that can
be used by any army or fleet. Article XI conceptualizes it as a “measure of restriction or
prohibition… impartially applied by it to both belligerents.”1 A neutral state must also hamper
or repel hostile military activity on its land, airspace, and territorial waters. Because of their
commitments to equitable treatment, neutral governments must apply any non-military
measures they choose to impose, such as export restrictions and embargoes, to all belligerents
equally. Finally, neutral governments must follow some limitations imposed by the
belligerents, such as bans on international travel and trade.

Non-alignment is a political concept that essentially promotes efforts towards peace and
stability in international relations.2 It originated as a concept in India and was institutionalized
with the Declaration of the Heads of State or Governments of 25 nonaligned countries.

For the purpose of this research, research articles and books on Ireland and its foreign policy.

i. Irish Neutrality: Ideology or Pragmatism?3

The roots of ‘ghostly spectre’ of Irish neutrality have been traced. In order to
maintain its ideology of neutrality, Ireland is one of the only four nations not a part
of the EU. The author investigates the basic ideas of Irish neutrality, including non-
alignment and respect for international law and human rights. They then analyze
how Ireland’s neutrality policy has changed over time, particularly in light of

1
Guttmon, Egon. “The Concept of Neutrality Since the Adoption and Ratification of the Hague Neutrality
Convention of 1907.” American University International Law Review vol. 14, no. 1, 1998, 55-60.
2
Fischer, Thomas, et al. “Introduction: Neutrality and Nonalignment in World Politics during the Cold War.”
Journal of Cold War Studies, vol. 18, no. 4, 2016, pp. 4–11. JSTOR, https://www.jstor.org/stable/26925637.
Accessed 1 Apr. 2024.
3
Raymond James Raymond. “Irish Neutrality: Ideology or Pragmatism?” International Affairs (Royal Institute of
International Affairs 1944-), vol. 60, no. 1, 1983, pp. 31–40. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/2618928. Accessed
1 Apr. 2024.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 8 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

shifting global dynamics and security risks. The blog analyzes whether Ireland’s
neutrality is genuinely ideological or influenced by pragmatic concerns like
economic interests and geopolitical reality. Overall, it provides a nuanced view of
the complex causes influencing Irish neutrality and its consequences for Irish
foreign policy.

ii. ‘PLATO’S CAVE’? Ireland’s wartime neutrality reassessed4

Using Plato’s Cave Analogy, Ireland’s moral failure in refusing to join a just war
against Nazi Germany is analyzed. Ireland, Lyons felt, instead looked inwards,
absorbed by its own affairs, and in 1945 emerged blinking uncomprehendingly into
the post-war world. The author goes into historical archives and discussions about
Ireland’s behavior during World War II, arguing that its neutrality may not have
been as strong as previously thought. The piece questions Ireland’s neutrality,
comparing it to Plato’s metaphorical cave, and suggests that hidden intentions or
prejudices may have been at play.

iii. Is Ireland Really ‘Neutral’?5

The essay critically discusses Ireland’s neutrality idea, notably in terms of foreign
policy and international relations. It investigates numerous situations in which
Ireland’s activities appear to veer from pure neutrality, such as involvement in
peacekeeping operations and membership in multinational alliances such as the EU.
The essay examines historical and present occurrences to challenge the extent to
which Ireland’s neutrality can be regarded as real. It proposes that Ireland’s foreign
policy actions may be motivated by pragmatic concerns rather than rigid adherence
to neutrality norms. The essay challenges the idea of Ireland as a completely neutral
participant in the world arena by examining its diplomatic and military actions.
iv. Ireland’s Non-Recognition of Palestine6
Ireland’s recognition processes have been described as proceeding’silentio in an ad
hoc way’ (Symmons 1993, 175), with Symmons’ ‘Irish Policy and Practice on
Recognition’ piece possibly the only complete work addressing them. Although

4
Kennedy, Michael. “‘PLATO’S CAVE’? Ireland’s Wartime Neutrality Reassessed.” History Ireland, vol. 19, no.
1, 2011, pp. 46–48. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/41000264. Accessed 1 Apr. 2024.
5
Driscoll, Dennis. “Is Ireland Really ‘Neutral’?” Irish Studies in International Affairs, vol. 1, no. 3, 1982, pp. 55–
61. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/30001725. Accessed 1 Apr. 2024.
6
Slattery, Joseph. Ireland’s Non-Recognition of Palestine. 2023. University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
European Politics and Society Master’s Degree.
___________________________________________________________________________
Page 9 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

determined to be secretive and unexpected, the analysis uncovered policy patterns

such as a growing reliance on European recognition norms. Ireland’s decision to
withhold recognition of Palestine dates back at least to the late 1980s, when it
seemed declarative and influenced by the Montevideo Convention (Symmons
1993). The administration was unwilling to recognise Palestine because some or
all’ of the convention’s conditions, such as a permanent population, a defined
territory, and a sovereign government, had not been met. However, during the
1990s, a modest tendency toward constitutive recognition was observed through
foreign policy Europeanisation.
There are distinct contrasts between Irish neutrality and conventional forms of neutral states:

a. Typically, neutral states uphold robust defense forces; Ireland, however, maintains a
relatively modest defense force numbering around 10,500 personnel.

b. Traditional neutral states generally prohibit the presence of foreign military within their
borders. In contrast, Ireland has a longstanding practice of allowing military aircraft
from various nations to refuel at Shannon Airport. Governed by the Air Navigation
(Foreign Military Aircraft) Order, 1952, the Minister for Foreign Affairs possessed
discretionary powers to grant permission for foreign military aircraft to transit or land
in the country. This authorization hinged on confirmation that the aircraft were
unarmed, carried no arms, ammunition, or explosives, and that their flights did not
constitute part of military exercises or operations.

c. Irish governments consistently assert that permitting aircraft to utilize Irish territory
does not signify involvement in any particular conflict and aligns with a neutral stance.
They cite the transit of German troops through neutral Swedish territory between
Finland and Norway during World War II as a precedent.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 10 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

IRELAND’S FOREIGN POLICY AND DIPLOMACY

The Irish Struggle for Independence and Military Neutrality

The early 20th century Irish struggle for independence from British rule is the major origin
period of Ireland’s neutrality. The nation attempted to reaffirm its independence and
sovereignty on the international arena after the Irish Free State was founded in 1922.7 Ireland’s
neutral position was based on its desire for autonomy, which enabled it to stay out of bigger
countries wars and power struggles. Ireland remained neutral during World War II and refused
to aid either side of the fight, in defiance of persuasion from both the Allied and Axis powers.
Ireland gained international respect for its principled position and this choice played a
significant role in forming the country’s identity as a neutral. The European Economic
Community was approved by 82% of Irish voters on May 10, 1972. Since then, 88% of Irish
voters are in favour of their country’s membership in the EU, making them among the biggest
proponents of the EU. Nonetheless, the nation frequently finds itself at conflict with the
geopolitical stances and foreign policies of numerous other EU members. Throughout the
20th and 21st centuries, Ireland has maintained its military neutrality. It does not belong to
either the Non-Aligned Movement or NATO. But the nation has sometimes declared its support
for particular causes by ally action. For instance, British airmen who were forced to land in
Ireland during World War II due to inclement weather and inadequate navigational equipment
were detained before being sent home.8

Even as tensions between the US and the USSR increased, Ireland maintained its neutrality
throughout the Cold War era.9 Ireland refused to ally with either of the two superpowers,
choosing instead to concentrate on advancing diplomacy and peace on the international scene
and being steadfast on its commitment to non-alignment. A major turning point in Ireland’s
foreign policy was the Good Friday Agreement of 1998, which contributed to the normalization

7
Wikipedia contributors. (2024a, March 11). Irish neutrality during World War II.
8
Balancing defence and neutrality: Ireland’s foreign policy and the Middle East. (n.d.). Green European
Journal. https://www.greeneuropeanjournal.eu/balancing-defence-and-neutrality-irelands-foreign-policy-and-
the-middle-east/.
9
Irish Neutrality: An Historical review on JSTOR.
(n.d.). www.jstor.org. https://www.jstor.org/stable/30001722?seq=4.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 11 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

of relations between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.10 This historic accord
strengthened Ireland’s reputation as a neutral country that promotes peace by demonstrating its
dedication to diplomacy and conflict resolution.

A modest army, as well as a navy for revenue patrols and fisheries, are permitted for Ireland by
the 1922 Treaty that established the Irish State.11 Britain maintains two ports, one in Donegal
and one in Cork, and it promises to have any further facilities it may require down the road.
The Irish defensive forces were actually kept tiny by a lack of funding; as late as 1939, there
were fewer than 6,000 regular soldiers and sailors. While remaining out of the Second World
War from 1939 to 1945, Ireland was actually “neutral for” the US, UK, and other allies. In
1938, Dublin regained authority of the three treaty ports. While 550 allied soldiers and airmen
were repatriated by De Valera’s government through the use of allied aircraft, 223 Germans
and three Japanese servicemen.

Challenges to Neutrality: Ethical and Ideological Issues

After been founded ten years earlier, Ireland eventually joined the UN in 1956. Due in part to
its neutrality, the Soviet Union routinely vetoed Ireland’s membership.12 During the so-called
Cold War, Ireland declared itself “neutral against communism” despite having declared
independence from several UN power blocs. Despite warnings that joining the European
Union in 1973 would entail ending military neutrality, Ireland became a member in 2001. Jack
Lynch and Taoisigh Sean Lemass had hinted at their future willingness to support European
defense measures. The Nice Treaty was rejected by Irish voters in 2001, and the Lisbon Treaty
was rejected in 2008. Following EU guarantees of respect for Irish military neutrality, those
referendums were successfully rerun in both occasions.13

10
Wikipedia contributors. (2024c, March 29). Good Friday agreement.
Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Friday_Agreement#:~:text=The%20agreement%20is%20made
%20up,the%20British%E2%80%93Irish%20Agreement).
11
Downing, J. (2023, June 22). A brief history of Ireland’s military neutrality – and how things stand today. Irish
Independent. https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/a-brief-history-of-irelands-military-neutrality-and-how-
things-stand-today/a1391082614.html.
12
Downing, J. (2023, June 22). A brief history of Ireland’s military neutrality – and how things stand today. Irish
Independent. https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/a-brief-history-of-irelands-military-neutrality-and-how-
things-stand-today/a1391082614.html.
13
Referendum on the Lisbon Treaty 2008 Ireland. (n.d.). https://www.robert-schuman.eu/en/monitor/852-
referendum-on-the-lisbon-treaty-in-ireland-12th-june-2008.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 12 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Midway through the 20th century, Ireland was engulfed in a major storm of moral and
intellectual conflicts. The international world was permanently changed by global conflict, all
nationalistic political movements were impacted by the advent of fascism, and the horrors of
Nazism and the Holocaust dominated Europe’s socio-political environment. New identity
issues concerning Ireland’s place in relation to Britain, the world at large, and—possibly most
crucially—the six divided Northern counties also surfaced. Ireland’s declared neutrality policy
thus raises serious ethical and ideological issues.14

Hence, currently EU treaties expressly say that EU actions “shall not prejudice the specific
character of the security and defence policy of certain member states,” as requested by Ireland.
Perhaps mysterious, but deliberately designed to protect Ireland’s “traditional neutrality.”
According to a Lisbon pact protocol, Ireland’s long-standing stance of military neutrality is
unaffected or prejudiced by the pact. Additionally, in 2002, we amended our Constitution to
include a clause (29.4.9) that forbade Ireland from participating in a joint EU defence.15

14
Boston College. (2013). The Unknown Ally: Irish Neutrality during World War II and a Consolidated Model
Analysis of its Effects on Anglo-Irish Relations [PDF]. Boston College. https://dlib.bc.edu/islandora/object/bc-
ir:102076/datastream/PDF/view.
15
Dorr, N. (2022, March 15). Do we know what we mean by Ireland’s ‘traditional neutrality’? The Irish
Times. https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/do-we-know-what-we-mean-by-ireland-s-traditional-neutrality-
1.4826729.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 13 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

IRELAND AND THE CASE FOR PALESTINE

History

By the late 1960s, Ireland's attention turned increasingly towards the predicament of
Palestinian refugees who had fled the Six-Day War in 1967. In 1969, the Irish Foreign Minister,
Frank Aiken, characterized this issue as the "primary and most urgent objective" of Ireland's
Middle East policy. In 1980, Ireland distinguished itself as the initial European Union member
state to formally endorse the establishment of a Palestinian state.

“A story of displacement, of dispossession, national identity questioned or denied, forced

emigration, discrimination, and now, hunger.”

Ireland’s Post-Colonial Identity Crisis

Palestinian liberation struggle in Ireland has always seen a strong support in its mainstream
politics. A huge attributed cause of this is the shared history of settler colonisation. Rashid
Khalidi, among other scholars, have argued that Britain’s settler colonial strategies in Ireland
are believed to have served as a “blueprint” for the Israeli occupation, leading to Ireland’s great
support against the foreign occupation and oppression.

Leo Varadkar, the Irish taoiseach, or prime minister, said at the White House,

“When I travel the world, leaders often ask me why the Irish have such empathy for the
Palestinian people, and the answer is simple: We see our history in their eyes — a story of
displacement, of dispossession and national identity questioned and denied, forced
emigration, discrimination and now hunger.”

Ireland’s President has time and again been a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, and has
been unequivocal in calling for a permanent ceasefire. The cabinet quickly denounced the
violence and EU’s double standards towards Palestine, while calling for a ceasefire. The
parliament sent different signals.16

16
Walsh, Aisling. “Ireland’s Post-colonial Identity Crisis and Gaza.” Al Jazeera, 8 Mar. 2024,
www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2024/3/8/irelands-post-colonial-identity-crisis-and-gaza.
___________________________________________________________________________
Page 14 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Ireland’s ‘Support’

Where the hub of support for Israel, against Palestine, lies, i.e. the United States of America,
the Irish prime minister pushed for a humanitarian ceasefire in the war, calling for release of
Israeli hostages. The prime minister has directly criticized the US President, even just before
St. Patrick’s, that his large support to shipping American weapons to Israel is not an activity
that Ireland stands with.

Ireland has always supported the Palestinians in their war with Israel, a sentiment reflected in
its diplomacy and culture. Even in its Security Council Resolution, it has called for an
immediate humanitarian ceasefire, which albeit, did not go too far.

Ireland was the last European Union country to allow an Israeli embassy to open, in 1993, and
was the first to call for a Palestinian state, in 1980. It has spearheaded criticism of Israel at the
United Nations.

Supporters of the Palestinian cause among the Irish often draw parallels between the historical
experiences of colonization shared by both peoples: the Irish under British rule and the
Palestinians under Israeli occupation.

According to Aislin Walsh, an academic specializing in colonialism, the methods of control

and oppression seen in present-day Palestine closely resemble those once used by the British
in Northern Ireland. This includes the presence of armed military patrols, checkpoints,
segregated cities, and separation walls, which shape the daily lives of Palestinians in a manner
reminiscent of the experiences of the Irish under British rule.17

Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and Malta (Ireland and Malta being two of the only 4 nations of Europe
not in NATO) have finally released a joint statement that they will recognize a Palestinian state.
Their solution for lasting peace and stability is a “two-state solution” that helps in the
achievement of peace and security.18 Despite strong support for Palestine in Ireland, the
government has yet to implement the 2014 decision to formalise diplomatic relations between
the two.

17
Kampeas, Ron. “In Ireland, Israel-Palestinian conflict serves as stand-in for fight against British.” The Times
of Israel. (2024).
18
“Spain, Ireland, Malta, Slovenia Agree to Work towards Palestinian State Recognition | Reuters.” Reuters,
www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/spain-ireland-malta-slovenia-agree-work-towards-palestinian-state-
recognition-2024-03-22/. Accessed 5 Apr. 2024.
___________________________________________________________________________
Page 15 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

However, the statement released is vague in its nature as it still fails to give a conclusive answer
as to when it will formally recognize Palestine. The same has been noted in the European
Council meeting in Brussels as well. It will be important to monitor the UN Security Council’s
decisions, as well as the reformed Palestinian Authority’s ability to govern in the coming
weeks.

Ireland emerges as one of Europe's staunchest supporters of the Palestinian people. Shortly
after Hamas' violent acts in Israel, which were followed by Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip,
the centre-right coalition government, in partnership with the Greens, called for an "urgent
humanitarian ceasefire" on October 18, 2023. Furthermore, they rejected efforts to reduce
funding for UNRWA, the UN organization that assists Palestinian refugees, despite Israel's
charges tying some of its members to the October 7 assaults.19

Ireland's unwavering denunciation of Israeli military operations and violations of Palestinian

civilians' human rights is one of the main tenets of its support for Palestine. Ireland, perceiving
Israeli airstrikes, invasions, and settlement expansions in the occupied territories as barriers to
peace and transgressions of international law, has not hesitated to oppose them. Furthermore,
Ireland has actively backed requests for independent investigations into claimed war crimes
and human rights breaches as well as other measures to make Israel responsible for its deeds.

19
Ducourtieux, Cécile. “Ireland, Europe’s Most pro-Palestinian Nation: ‘We Too Have Known Oppression and
Famine.’” Le Monde.fr, 2 Apr. 2024, www.lemonde.fr/en/m-le-mag/article/2024/04/01/ireland-europe-s-most-
pro-palestinian-nation-we-too-have-known-oppression-and-famine_6666995_117.html#.
___________________________________________________________________________
Page 16 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF IRELAND’S FOREIGN POLICIES

AND SOUTH AFRICA IN CONTEXT TO PALESTINE ISSUE

Ireland and South Africa’s Historical Roots

The historical events of colonization and independence movements in South Africa and Ireland
have shaped their respective foreign policy outlooks. But if Ireland’s view on Palestine is very
much in line with international consensus and human rights norms, South Africa’s perspective
has changed over time due to the country’s own history of apartheid and liberation efforts.
Ireland has a long history of upholding the values of justice, human rights, and self-
determination, which informs its foreign policy toward Palestine. Ireland’s compassionate
attitude toward other oppressed peoples, such as the Palestinians, has been influenced by its
own fight for independence from British domination. The Palestinian cause has received
international backing from the Irish government, which has continuously advocated for a two-
state solution based on the pre-1967 boundaries, with East Jerusalem serving as the capital of
Palestine.20 Furthermore, South Africa and Ireland have different approaches to how public
opinion and civil society influence foreign policy decisions. Government policy in Ireland is
significantly influenced by the strong civil society activism and the general public support for
Palestinian rights. The government’s commitment to supporting Palestinian development
initiatives and promoting Palestinian rights in international forums is motivated by this
grassroots pressure, which is in line with Ireland’s ethical foreign policy framework. However,
despite strong public support for Palestine in South Africa, the government’s capacity to act
decisively is periodically hampered by internal political dynamics and economic interests.
When it comes to foreign policy, the legacy of apartheid and the need for economic
development frequently collide, forcing South Africa to make reasonable concessions in its
handling of the Palestine conflict.

The declaration made by Ireland, the first member state of the European Union, was that a
Palestinian state with complete sovereignty, living independently of Israel, was the basis for
resolving the Middle East issue. In 1980, the foreign ministers of Bahrain and Ireland jointly
released a statement that included this claim. The realization of a two-state solution has since

20
Addressing Israeli-Palestinian tensions as they arise cannot replace efforts to resolve core issues, Deputy
special coordinator tells Security Council | Meetings coverage and press releases. (2022, July
26). https://press.un.org/en/2022/sc14981.doc.html.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 17 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

been accorded top priority by every Irish government and is currently the acknowledged
objective of all outward endeavours. The government continues to place a high priority on the
Middle East Peace Process. Ireland supports the resumption of extensive negotiations for a
comprehensive peace accord, as does our EU partner. In an effort to find a peaceful resolution
to the situation, Ireland has continuously communicated with all pertinent parties. Two visits
to the region were made by Tánaiste and Minister of Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin in 2023,
including one during a significant escalation of hostilities following the strikes by Hamas and
other militant organizations on October 7. Along with cautioning against regional escalation,
the Tánaiste has also spoken with a number of regional partners on many calls. Ireland has led
the way in repeatedly demanding an instant end to hostilities and the delivery of humanitarian
relief to those in need who are civilians.21

Two-State Solution as a Cornerstone

Ireland has a long history of supporting Palestinian citizens, partly due to a shared experience
of British colonization and a painful and seemingly unending conflict that ended with the Good
Friday Agreement in 1998. When it comes to its position on the conflict, Ireland has stood out
in Europe since the attacks on October 7th, which were spearheaded by Hamas and resulted in
the deaths of over 1,200 people, according to Israeli authorities, and the ensuing bombardment
of Gaza. A large portion of the Irish island gained independence from Britain, but the six
counties that today comprise Northern Ireland were retained as part of the United Kingdom.
According to Dr. Ohlmeyer, such law served as the model for the partitioning of other former
British territories, such as India and Pakistan in 1947 and “Israel and Palestine” the following
year.22

The Palestine Liberation Organization and the African National Congress were closely
affiliated. Yasser Arafat and Nelson Mandela were close. On February 15, 1995, South Africa
established diplomatic ties with the State of Palestine subsequent to the first non-racial
elections held in 1994.23 The Palestine Liberation Organization and the African National

21
Israeli-Palestinian conflict. (n.d.). Ireland.ie. https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/role-policies/international-
priorities/israeli-palestinian-conflict/.
22
(2023, December 2). Ireland’s Support for Palestinians Grows, Surprising Even the Irish. The New York Times.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/02/world/europe/ireland-palestinians-support.html.
23
Wikipedia contributors. (2024a, February 13). Palestine–South Africa relations.
Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palestine%E2%80%93South_Africa_relations#:~:text=South
%20Africa%20said%20that%2C%20%22the,in%20the%20UN%20Security%20Council.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 18 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Congress were closely affiliated. Israel was charged with breaking the 1948 Genocide
Convention by South Africa and brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on
January 11, 2024. This was in response to Israel’s indiscriminate bombing and siege of Gaza
after Hamas’ horrific attack on Israel on October 7, which left 1,200 Israelis dead. The
liberation of South Africa is sometimes seen as the pinnacle of “Third World” unity and the
final act of decolonization in the 20th century. The nation’s new foreign policy strategy
represented the aspirations of nations that had battled for independence.24

South Africa’s Evolving Stance: From Partnership to Criticism

The Israeli and South African governments under apartheid worked together on military,
diplomatic, and nuclear matters during the Cold War. An alternate kind of internationalism was
practiced by the liberation movements of these two nations, the African National Congress
(ANC) and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). This was a revolutionary act
motivated by the Third World’s unity. Yasser Arafat, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation
Organization (PLO), was the first liberation leader to address the UN General Assembly in
1974. He demanded that other liberation groups be granted the same privilege. Arafat took the
opportunity to condemn the apartheid state with the same intensity with which he had criticized
Israel. Oliver Tambo, the president of the ANC at the time, addressed the same group two years
later and praised Arafat’s leadership in this issue while expressing his “unwavering solidarity”
with the Palestinians.25

There’s no denying that historical bitterness over Israel’s role in supporting a government that
the African National Congress (ANC) was seeking to overturn and in extending white minority
rule contributes to the current African administration. The Palestinian cause has long been
supported by South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement and its numerous liberation movements.
The Palestine Liberation Organization provided support to the African National Congress
(ANC) during a period when Israel was arming the oppressors of Black South Africans. (PLO).
It was expected that Nelson Mandela would meet with Yasser Arafat, the head of the PLO,

24
Vale, P., & Thakur, V. (n.d.). South Africa’s genocide case against Israel is the country’s proudest foreign
policy moment in three decades. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/south-africas-genocide-
case-against-israel-is-the-countrys-proudest-foreign-policy-moment-in-three-decades-221512.
25
Polakow-Suransky, S. (2024, March 5). What South Africa really won at the ICJ. Foreign
Policy. https://foreignpolicy.com/2024/02/01/south-africa-israel-gaza-genocide-icj-global-south-
ukraine/.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 19 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

shortly after his release from jail in 1990 and declare, “There are many similarities between
our struggle and that of the PLO.”

Governments from Bangladesh to Namibia have formally intervened in favour of the ICJ case,
which has gained it acclaim throughout the global south.26 The ANC administration is no longer
reluctant to publicly oppose and criticize Washington. Pretoria demonstrated that it is not
willing to merely toe the anti-Western line established by Beijing and Moscow when it hosted
the BRICS conference in August. It aims to take the lead inside the bloc on its own. Larger
nations’ inaction and duplicity have been exploited by South Africa in an attempt to restore its
standing as a moral leader in the world. It may or may not be worthy of that accolade, but it is
on the path of it.

26
Swart, M. (2024, February 22). What the ICJ case against Israel means for South Africa.
DAWN. https://dawnmena.org/what-the-icj-case-against-israel-means-for-south-africa/.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 20 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Diplomacy and Implications

Although Ireland's bilateral ties with the United States and the United Kingdom are equally
significant, its participation in the European Union has a significant impact on its foreign
policy. It is one of the smallest EU members and has always pursued a non-aligned foreign
policy. Ireland has a long history of maintaining military neutrality and is not a member of the
North Atlantic Treaty Organization due to its tendency toward independence in international
military policy.

As of April 2024, Ireland refrains from formalizing recognition of the State of Palestine;
nevertheless, it consistently engages with pertinent stakeholders to seek a peaceful resolution
to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the Irish government has expressed readiness to
acknowledge the State of Palestine as part of a broader initiative within the European Union,
this position has encountered criticism from Irish TDs. Ireland's enduring commitment to
fostering a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East is well established. The Irish
Department of Foreign Affairs has delineated various measures undertaken toward this
objective, including advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities, extending
humanitarian aid to distressed civilians, conducting two fact-finding missions to the region in
2023, engaging in numerous consultations with regional counterparts, and actively
discouraging any escalation in the area.

Implications of Considering Palestine as a State

Ireland, being another country recognizing Palestine, would help in furthering of pursuit of the
legal rights of Palestine. Territorial waters and air space as a sovereign state, and the right to
sue for sovereignty moreover would be allowed. In addition, Palestine would not have to rely
on other countries to take its cause to the International Court of Justice and bring “crimes
against humanity” and war crime charges. 27

Diplomacy is instrumental in the establishment and maintenance of coalitions, which serve as

deterrents to war or facilitate its initiation. It undermines the alliances of adversaries and fosters
the non-aggression of potentially hostile entities. Diplomacy orchestrates the conclusion of

27
Prof. Taheri. “Palestine threatens to sue Israel at ICC.” The Citizen. (2013).
___________________________________________________________________________
Page 21 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

conflicts and contributes to the formation, fortification, and preservation of peace in the
aftermath of war.

From the above discussion, it is pertinent to note that Ireland offers vocal support and aid to
Palestine through funding of the UNRWA, but it does not provide enough to get Palestine the
international recognition that it requires to sustain as a sovereign state.

It gives enough hope to the people in conflicted regions for them to clutch on it as one of the
only Western, European nations supporting it, but also does not act on it in its words. The
Government has yet to follow up on those Oireachtas motions, despite a commitment to do so
featuring in the current Programme for Government.28 Oireachtas is the bicameral parliament
of Ireland.

On the other hand, Ireland is expected to include in its intervention the argument that Israel’s
blocking of food aid to Gaza could be considered an act of genocide. The three concepts of
statehood, UN membership, and Palestine's statehood are distinct from one another: Being
recognized as a member of the UN does not exclude the creation of a state. It is not legally
necessary for recognition to be granted in order to establish a state under UN auspices, as
recognition is a political and frequently bilateral procedure. It follows that the decision to
recognize the state of Palestine rests with each state separately. The Palestinians want bilateral
recognition from as many nations as they can in tandem with their bid for UN statehood.

An internationally recognized Palestinian state (via the UN General Assembly) would be able
to join international organizations such as the IMF and the World Bank, sign important
multilateral treaties, particularly those protecting human rights, and have standing in the
International Criminal Court, the International Court of Justice, and domestic courts of
countries that recognized the Palestinian state. 29

However, where Ireland’s vague promises and words are unanticipated considering how the
cabinet, which promised to recognise Palestine’s statehood, has now said that they will be
stepping down. Where Ireland’s future for diplomacy in the case of Palestine lies remains
unknown.

28
Mcdermott, Stephen. “Ireland, Israel and Palestine: how politics and history have created a complicated
relationship.” The Journal. (2023).
29
Irish Diplomacy in a Globalised World - Department of Foreign Affairs. www.dfa.ie/irish-embassy/great-
britain/news-and-events/2015/irish-diplomacy-in-a-globalised-world.
___________________________________________________________________________
Page 22 of 23
Examining Ireland’s Neutrality: A Comparative Focus on Foreign Policy Intervention with the Case of Palestine
__________________________________________________________________________________________

Conclusion

The historical trajectory of Ireland's support for the Palestinian cause underscores the deeply
intertwined narratives of colonialism, displacement, and shared struggles for self-
determination. From being the first EU member state to advocate for a Palestinian state to
consistently condemning Israeli military actions and human rights violations, Ireland emerges
as a stalwart supporter of the Palestinian people.

The historical narratives and foreign policy stances of Ireland and South Africa towards
Palestine are deeply rooted in their own struggles for independence and against oppression.
While Ireland's consistent support for Palestinian rights reflects its commitment to justice and
human rights, South Africa's evolving stance underscores the interplay between historical
solidarity, contemporary political dynamics, and economic imperatives. Despite differing
approaches, both countries continue to advocate for a two-state solution and play significant
roles in shaping the global discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Ireland's position on Palestine is consistent with its strong commitment to independence and
neutrality while exhibiting a complex diplomatic dance inside the EU. Ireland regularly
engages in diplomatic efforts to promote peace in the region, even if it has chosen not to
formally recognize the State of Palestine. Nonetheless, despite outspoken declarations of
support, criticism stems from its inability to properly execute moves in favor of Palestinian
statehood. Ireland's support of Palestine's legal rights serves as a reminder of the difficulties
involved in diplomacy and the larger picture of statehood. Ireland's future diplomatic moves
toward Palestine are still unclear as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict develops, which begs the
issue of how consistent and successful its foreign policy strategy has been in the area.

___________________________________________________________________________
Page 23 of 23