Irish Anti-Israel Sentiment Rooted in Shared History of Struggle, Study Finds

A new academic study from 2026 reveals that widespread anti-Israel sentiment in Ireland stems primarily from historical parallels between the Irish struggle for independence and the Palestinian cause. Despite lacking direct political disputes or resource conflicts with Israel, a significant majority of Irish people identify with the Palestinian narrative due to their own experiences with British rule, territorial division, and national conflict.

The research, based on a representative survey of 1,547 Irish individuals, found a strong correlation between the perception of historical oppression and colonialism in Ireland and empathy for Palestinians. Many Irish citizens see patterns in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that mirror their own past.

This historical connection is not new, with ideological links between Irish nationalists and Middle Eastern groups resisting British rule dating back to Ireland's fight for independence. Over time, a perception has solidified among segments of the Irish public that Palestinians are in a position analogous to that of the Irish vis-à-vis Britain.

The study indicates this sentiment is deeply ingrained: approximately 53% of Irish respondents identified more with the Palestinian side, compared to about 11% who identified more with Israel. A substantial 76% stated the conflict is significantly important to them, highlighting a broad public stance rather than just government policy.

The Irish government's recognition of a Palestinian state in May 2024, alongside Spain and Norway, was justified as support for Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution, while affirming Israel's right to exist. The study also notes that support for Palestinians transcends the political left, with significant identification found even among voters for centrist parties like Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, suggesting a broad national position.

Ultimately, many Irish people frame their stance not as hatred of Israel, but as a historical identification with a people fighting foreign rule, leading them to view the Palestinians through the lens of Irish history. This perspective contributes to Ireland's position as a Western nation with one of the strongest levels of support for the Palestinian cause.