Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am responding to the Senator's suggestion that we advance Israeli-Palestinian relations and the pathway towards a negotiated solution by expelling the Israeli ambassador from Dublin. I think that would be counterproductive. In fact, I know it would be. That does not mean that we should not speak up and be critical of Israel's actions. I do that all the time. I speak directly to Israeli representatives and my counterparts in that regard. The Senator's approach that we should shut off Israel, not engage with it and take a one-sided view of this issue will not deliver an outcome that is lasting and peaceful and that makes sense for Palestinians in the medium term. That is why I totally reject it.