Ex-CIA director praises Ireland for recognising Palestinian statehood
The Irish Government has been praised by a former US intelligence boss for standing up against Israel.
Last May, Ireland formally recognised the State of Palestine.
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The Hamas-run Health Ministry estimates more than 55,000 people have been killed in Gaza since fighting re-ignited more than 20 months ago.
John Brennan, who served as the director of the CIA between 2013 and 2017, said Ireland is a world leader when it comes to standing up for the people of Palestine.
Mr Brennan said: "Bibi [Benjamin] Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition really do not want to allow the Palestinian Authority or any Palestinian governing body to be able to flourish.
"And I think a lot of Americans were very pleased when we saw that Ireland recognised the Palestinian State... and has taken a very hard line against Israel.
"It's unfortunate that the situation, over the last many decades has deteriorated to such an extent."
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