Palestinian President, Irish PM discuss Gaza over phone call

Ramallah: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris engaged in a phone conversation to discuss the latest developments in the Palestinian territories, as reported by the Palestinian official news agency WAFA.

In the call on Monday, President Abbas stressed the urgent need for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2735, which aims to end the fighting in Gaza, deliver humanitarian aid to the region, and ensure the full withdrawal of Israeli forces.

He expressed gratitude to Ireland and its people for their consistent support for peace and stability in the region, as well as their commitment to resolving the Palestinian issue based on the two-state solution. Abbas also acknowledged Ireland’s continued support for the Palestinian people, including the country's recognition of the State of Palestine, backing for the Palestinian government, contributions to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, and its efforts to provide medical aid by hosting injured children from Gaza.

Prime Minister Harris conveyed his heartfelt condolences and profound sorrow over the significant loss of Palestinian lives, calling for an immediate ceasefire and highlighting the importance of adhering to international law and legitimacy.

Harris reaffirmed Ireland’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the State of Palestine and its people, as well as promoting cooperation to achieve peace and stability in the region. He reiterated Ireland's ongoing support for Palestinian state-building efforts and the securing of full rights for the Palestinian people under international law.

On December 15, Israel announced the closure of its embassy in Ireland, citing the Irish government's "extreme anti-Israel policies" as the reason for the decision.

With IANS inputs