Ireland Advances Anti-Israel Boycott Bill, US Warns of Consequences

The Irish parliament advanced a bill on Wednesday, November 19, to ban goods and services from Judea, Samaria, and eastern Jerusalem, drawing sharp criticism from American and Jewish leaders who warned of legal, diplomatic, and economic fallout. The so-called “Occupied Territories Bill,” long championed by anti-Israel factions, gained momentum as opposition parties pushed a motion urging passage by year’s end; the government, which had previously stalled the measure, stood down.

A US State Department spokesperson said the legislation is unhelpful and could adversely affect American businesses operating in Ireland, adding that the move does not serve the cause of Middle East peace. The bill’s scope may extend beyond goods to include services, a matter still under debate, and officials acknowledged the timing is sensitive amid ongoing regional diplomacy.

Supporters argue there is “no policy issue” with including both goods and services, but stressed the need for legal robustness to withstand challenges. Critics warned the proposal would place Ireland outside the European Union’s framework on trade with Israeli-controlled territories and could harm the country’s standing with key allies.

(INN/VFI News)

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May they prosper who love you.’” – Psalm 122:6