As the Palestinian flag is raised at Leinster House, marking Ireland's formal recognition of the State of Palestine today, the Tánaiste Micheál Martin has released a statement about the decision – noting that it is "not the end of a process; it is the beginning."

The Tánaiste – who met with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa in recent days – goes on to note that it is "vital that the Palestinian Authority is given the full backing of the international community in its reform and service delivery efforts".

Taoiseach Simon Harris is also expected to make a formal statement about the historic decision this afternoon.

Norway and Spain have also officially recognised the State of Palestine today.

Read the Tánaiste's statement in full below: 

“Today’s Government decision authorises the establishment of full diplomatic relations with the State of Palestine. Subject to the formal request from the Palestinian authorities, the Government will upgrade the status of the Palestinian Mission in Ireland to that of an Embassy, and authorise the appointment of an Ambassador from the State of Palestine to Ireland.

"Our decision today also authorises the upgrading of the current Representative Office of Ireland in Ramallah to an Embassy.

"Recognition of Palestine is not the end of a process; it is the beginning. We are deeply committed to the pursuit of peace and support for Palestinian state-building. Ireland has reaffirmed this commitment over many decades, through intensive diplomacy and our long-standing development cooperation programme.

"It is vital that the Palestinian Authority is given the full backing of the international community in its reform and service delivery efforts and we will redouble our energies to this end.

"In recent days, I have held substantive discussions on the path ahead with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and engaged with European and Arab partners on the Arab Peace Vision as a meaningful way forward in achieving peace.

"Ireland will continue to work closely with the Palestinian Authority, and our EU and international partners, in creating a political path that can stop this horrific conflict and humanitarian disaster, ensure the release of all hostages, and realise the vision of a sovereign, independent Palestinian State existing alongside the State of Israel in peace and security.”

My statement on Ireland’s formal recognition of the State of Palestine ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/f1gEYLkrLR

— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) May 28, 2024