US Congress group calls for Ireland to be included in list of countries boycotting Israel

James Cox

A group of American politicians are asking for Ireland to be placed on a list of countries which boycott Israel, if the Occupied Territories Bill is passed.

The 16 congress representatives have signed a letter, expressing what they say are serious concerns about the plans to ban the import of goods from the illegal settlers in the West Bank of Palestine.

It reads: “Last month, Irish Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Simon Harris introduced legislation to prohibit the import of goods and services originating from territories under Israeli administration that they characterize as ‘occupied,’ including Judea and Samaria, Gaza, parts of Jerusalem and the Golan Heights,” the letter from the Congressmen and women states.

“This measure is part of a broader effort aligned with the global Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which seeks to economically isolate Israel. Such policies not only promote economic discrimination but also create legal uncertainty for US companies operating in Ireland.

“The United States must send a clear signal that efforts to economically isolate Israel will carry consequences, and that US law designed to combat such discrimination will be enforced.”

If Ireland is added to the list, it would mean specific tax requirements and potential penalties for American companies doing business here.

The letter was sent to US treasury secretary Scott Bessent.