the Irish government has approved a draft bill to prohibit imports from illegal Israeli settlements, marking an unprecedented move by an EU member state, according to webangah News Agency.
The decision follows last year’s advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ruled that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza violates international law. Ireland cited this opinion as the basis for its legislation.
In a statement, Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs said the government agreed to advance legislation banning trade with illegal settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, calling it “an obligation under international law.”
Before the cabinet’s decision, Irish Foreign minister Simon Harris told reporters he hopes other EU nations will follow Ireland’s lead. “I hope today’s decision by this small European country – likely making it the first Western nation to adopt such measures – will inspire others to join us,” he said.
The move could considerably increase political pressure on Israel and pave the way for similar actions by other European states. Israel maintains its settlement activities in occupied territories are legal.
The advancement comes after Canada, Britain, and France jointly condemned Israel’s blockade of Gaza earlier this year, warning they would take decisive measures if it continues.
