Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Sa’ar has gone as far as to accuse the Irish Taoiseach, Simon Harris, of being an antisemite himself.

There is fury in Israel at Ireland’s suggestion that Israel has committed genocide.

Perhaps Mr Harris and others in his administration need to check the definition of the word, and also look closer to home at some of the atrocities committed in recent years against British troops and civilians by some of their country’s citizens.

Having said that, Israel’s knee-jerk reaction in closing its embassy in Dublin and recalling staff does not seem to be the most sensible move.

Having diplomatic representation in any country ensures that Israel’s voice can be heard at the highest level, but it also ensures the safety of Israeli citizens in Ireland and is able to deal with problems they encounter.

Perhaps Jerusalem will thing again about the wisdom of its actions.

It does not look good to the wider world to up sticks and leave in this manner.

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