Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ireland Bars Israeli Ministers, Israel Shuts Dublin Embassy

6/6/2026

29 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ireland announced on June 5 that it will bar Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich from entering the country.
Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan instructed immigration officers to refuse entry to the two ministers.
Germany is reported to be considering support for EU sanctions against Itamar Ben Gvir.
Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Saar ordered the Dublin embassy closed, blaming Ireland’s policies for the decision.

History

Historical Context

After the United States barred senior apartheid officials in 1985 and Congress overrode President Reagan’s veto to enact the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act in 1986—cutting U.S. imports from South Africa by 35% through 1987—Western powers began using diplomatic exclusion as pressure. Ireland’s 2024 refusal to admit Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich follows that precedent, heightening tensions with Israel.

1 of 2

Story summary

Ireland announced on June 5 that it will bar Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich from entering the country.
Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan instructed immigration officers to refuse entry to the two ministers.
Germany is reported to be considering support for EU sanctions against Itamar Ben Gvir.
Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Saar ordered the Dublin embassy closed, blaming Ireland’s policies for the decision.

1 / 2