Israel Summons Irish Ambassador Over Prime Minister's Biblical Quote on Captive Girl's Release
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Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar quoted a Bible verse when commenting on the release of an Irish-Israeli girl held captive by Hamas. This drew criticism from Israeli officials.
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Israel's Foreign Minister said Varadkar was trying to "legitimize and normalize terror" and summoned the Irish ambassador over the comments.
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Ireland's Education Minister said Israel overreacted and that the Prime Minister condemns terrorism daily. He defended Varadkar's statement.
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Ireland's Minister for Enterprise also defended Varadkar, calling Israel's reaction unfair given Ireland's position on the conflict.
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Ireland's ambassador to Israel met with an Israeli foreign ministry official to show Varadkar's full statement. Ireland expressed surprise at Israel's public criticism.