WATCH: Ireland recognizes Palestine as independent state in "historic and important day"

"We had hoped to recognize Palestine as part of a two-state peace deal but instead we recognize Palestine to keep the hope of that two-state solution alive.

"We want to thank and are honored to recognize Palestine at the same time as our friends in Spain and Norway. We are hopeful others will do the same in the next wave.”

Harris said he was confident other countries would follow the move taken by Ireland, Spain, and Norway in the coming weeks.

"This is a historic and important day for Ireland and for Palestine," he added.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said in a statement: "It is our deeply-held belief that there can be no peace in the Middle East until the Israeli and Palestinian people alike enjoy the same rights to self-determination, statehood, peace, security and dignity.

"Recognition of Palestine is not the end of a process; it is the beginning.

"It is our conviction that the two-State solution remains the only viable option to secure a just and lasting peace, and a better future.

"I will also continue to work tirelessly on the immediate priority of securing a ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of hostages, and full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access.“

Minister for Environment Eamon Ryan said: "It is long past time that Palestine joins the other nations of the world as an internationally recognized state.

"We hope this recognition will be complemented by other initiatives to halt the war in Gaza.

"It in no way undermines our recognition of the right of Israel to exist.

"We want to see an immediate release of all hostages and at the same time provision of humanitarian aid for all those left destitute by the war."

After the announcement, Israel's foreign minister ordered Israel's ambassadors from Ireland and Norway to immediately return to Israel.

The day before Ireland made its announcement, Israel's foreign ministry warned in a video targeted at Ireland that recognizing a Palestinian state "will lead to more terrorism" and "jeopardize any prospects for peace."