Ireland advances bill to ban trade with Israeli settlements
Ireland moves to ban settlement imports, strengthening its pro-Palestinian stance within the EU
DUBLN (MNTV) – Ireland is advancing legislation to ban imports from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, marking a significant step in its pro-Palestinian foreign policy.
The Irish cabinet approved the drafting of the bill on May 27, 2025, positioning Ireland to become the first EU member state to implement such a measure.
While trade between Ireland and these settlements is minimal—valued at approximately €685,000 over four years—the move is largely symbolic, reflecting Ireland’s commitment to international law and human rights.
Prime Minister Micheál Martin emphasized that the initiative aligns with Ireland’s recognition of a Palestinian state in May 2024, a decision made in coordination with Spain and Norway.
Foreign Minister Simon Harris stated, “In many ways this is a small measure but it is imperative on all countries to do all that we can to maximize the pressure and conditions to bring about a ceasefire,” expressing hope that other nations would adopt similar policies.
The proposed legislation, known as the Occupied Territories Bill, was initially introduced in 2018 but faced delays due to concerns over EU trade policy jurisdiction.
However, a 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice, declaring Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories illegal, has provided a legal basis for Ireland to proceed.
This development follows broader European actions, including the U.K.’s suspension of free trade talks with Israel and the EU’s review of its association agreement with Israel, initiatives that Ireland and Spain have actively supported.
The bill will undergo parliamentary scrutiny in the coming weeks, with votes in both houses anticipated later this year.
If enacted, it would criminalize the import of goods from Israeli settlements, excluding services, reinforcing Ireland’s stance on upholding international law and advocating for Palestinian rights.
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