Ireland becomes first EU nation to introduce ban on trade with Israel

Ireland has become the first European nation to introduce legislation banning trade with Israel, according to an announcement by Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris.

In a public statement, Harris emphasized that the proposed legislation reflects Ireland’s firm position against what he described as "genocidal activity in Gaza."

He added that the move is intended to align Ireland’s foreign policy with its humanitarian values and international human rights obligations.

The proposed ban is expected to generate significant debate across Europe, as tensions remain high over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Trade between Ireland and the settlements is small. It mainly involves fruit, vegetables, and timber. From 2020 to 2024, trade was less than one million euros.

So, the ban will not hurt Ireland’s economy much. Still, it will send a clear political message about the conflict.

Today Ireland becomes the first country in Europe to bring forward legislation to ban trade with the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Ireland is speaking up and speaking out against the genocidal activity in Gaza.
Every country must pull every lever at its disposal. pic.twitter.com/Z4RTjqntEY

— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) June 24, 2025