Tensions escalate over fake passports

THE diplomatic rift between Ireland and Israel worsened yesterday when the Irish ambassador to Israel admitted the use of fake Irish passports in the assassination of a top Palestinian commander, has not helped relations between the two countries.

Five fake Irish passports were used by the assassins, who are strongly suspected of being Israeli secret agents.

Ambassador Breifne O’Reilly, in Tel Aviv, told the Irish Examiner the allegations against Israel “certainly doesn’t help” diplomatic relations between the two countries.