Ministers agreed last Wednesday to intervene in the ICJ cases of South Africa v Israel and The Gambia v Myanmar — both brought under the Genocide Convention — in a decision that was warmly welcomed by human rights campaigners.

Tánaiste and foreign affairs minister Micheál Martin said Ireland would seek to challenge the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” and a “culture of impunity in which the protection of civilians is minimised”.

However, Israeli foreign minister Gideon Saar yesterday claimed the Irish government’s actions were driven by antisemitism.

He announced the closure of the Israeli embassy in Dublin “in light of the extreme anti-Israel policies of the Irish government”, as well as plans to open a new embassy in Moldova.

Mr Saar condemned what he described as “the delegitimisation and demonisation of the Jewish state, along with double standards”, by which “Ireland has crossed every red line in its relations with Israel”.

The Irish government denies being “anti-Israel” and says it remains committed to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In a statement yesterday, Mr Martin said: “I have been informed today of the decision by the government of Israel to close its embassy in Dublin.

“I believe firmly in the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels of communication and regret that this decision has been taken.

“Ireland’s position on the conflict in the Middle East has always been guided by the principles of international law and the obligation on all states to adhere to international humanitarian law.

“This has been the case with regard to our response to the terrorist attack by Hamas in Israel on 7 October 2023, and to the conduct by Israel of its military operations since then.

“The continuation of the war in Gaza and the loss of innocent lives is simply unacceptable and contravenes international law. It represents the collective punishment of the Palestinian people in Gaza. We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

“Ireland and Israel will continue to maintain diplomatic relations. Inherent in that is the right to agree and disagree on fundamental points.

“There are no plans to close Ireland’s embassy in Israel, which is carrying out important work.”

Taoiseach Simon Harris added: “I am deeply disappointed by the Israeli government’s decision to close its embassy in Dublin.

“Ireland’s foreign policy is founded on our deep commitment to dialogue and to the peaceful resolution of disputes. Resident embassies play a very important role in that regard.

“Keeping channels open has never been more important so that we can better understand each other’s positions, even when we disagree.

“I utterly reject the assertion that Ireland is anti-Israel. Ireland is pro-peace, pro-human rights and pro-international law.

“Ireland wants a two-state solution and for Israel and Palestine to live in peace and security. Ireland will always speak up for human rights and international law. Nothing will distract from that.”