Ireland appoints first full Palestinian ambassador, reaffirms support for independent state

Ireland has appointed its first full Palestinian ambassador, marking a significant development after formally recognizing the Palestinian state earlier this year.

Senior Irish ministers confirmed that Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid would advance from her Palestinian Head of Mission role to become the full ambassador to Ireland.

In May, Dublin announced its recognition of Palestine as “a sovereign and independent state,” encompassing both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, and agreed to initiate full diplomatic relations.

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On the same day as Ireland, Spain and Norway also recognized the Palestinian state, followed by Slovenia a week later, a move that prompted responses from Israel.

These countries have been vocal critics of Israel’s actions following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas, which ignited renewed conflict across the region.

Ireland and the State of Palestine formally established diplomatic relations in September.

Last month, the Palestinian Authority informed Dublin of its decision to upgrade its mission in Ireland to a resident embassy, as provided under the 1961 Vienna Convention, which ensures diplomatic protections.

The upgrade grants the Palestinian mission full privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention.