Irish Premier Simon Harris has stated that the country's recently elected parliament will not be deterred from demanding respect for international law and peace in Gaza.During Wednesday's inaugural meeting of Ireland's new parliament, which chose a new speaker, Mr. Harris made the remarks.Outside the gates of Leinster House, a pro-Palestine demonstration was conducted as the new TDs assembled in the Dail chamber for the first time. The demonstration called on the TDs to swiftly enact a bill that would prohibit imports from illegal Israeli settlements on Palestinian territory.Ireland was accused by Israel's foreign minister of using "antisemitic rhetoric" and of using "every red line in its relations with Israel" when Israel announced it was closing its embassy in Dublin over the weekend.Gideon Saar cited Ireland recognising a Palestinian state “during attacks on Israel”, and attempting to “redefine ‘genocide’ in international law to support baseless claims against Israel at the International Court of Justice” as acts of hostility towards Israel.Irish President Michael D Higgins said it was a “deep slander” and “gross defamation” to accuse Irish people of being antisemitic and said it was “part of a pattern to damage Ireland”.

In his speech to the Dail parliament on Wednesday, Mr Harris said that Ireland’s parliament or government would not be intimidated from speaking up for peace.“I want to tell this House one thing with absolute certainty – no government of any country, especially one which is engaging in the most immoral and brutal onslaught of innocent people and terrified children will intimidate or silence anyone in this House or this government when we seek to speak up for peace, for human rights and for respect for international law.“Political debate in general, and debate in this Dail can often be characterised by division, but on the issue of war in Gaza and the suffering of people there, I believe we’re actually united.

“I’m very proud that Ireland speaks with a strong voice, and it is one which cries out for a ceasefire, for the release of all hostages, for the flow of humanitarian aid, and ultimately, for the peaceful coexistence of Israel and Palestine as two states.”