The Taoiseach is in Brussels today where he will attend a two-day Special European Council meeting with other EU leaders.
The leaders will discuss international issues including the situation in the Middle East and Ukraine.
It is Simon Harris's first European Council meeting since becoming Taoiseach last Tuesday.
Speaking ahead of the meeting Mr Harris said he will be condemning Iran's attack on Israel at the weekend while calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
"In our discussion of the Middle East, I will be expressing my strong condemnation of Iran's attack on Israel at the weekend," he said.
"The fact that it largely did not succeed, does not make it any less appalling.
"The EU needs to use its influence to ensure maximum restraint and to prevent any escalation in the region.
"I will also make clear my strong view that there should be an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, with the release of all hostages and the surging of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza who are in desperate need".
Taoiseach Simon Harris with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez at Government Buildings, 12-4-24. Image: Government Information ServiceMr Harris said he expects to have conversations "with like-minded partners" on the question of recognising Palestine, building on a recent meeting with Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Dublin.
Mr Harris will also discuss the situation in Lebanon, where there are over 300 Irish troops serving with UNIFIL.
"Lebanon deserves the EU's support as it works to manage regional tensions, to host a significant population of refugees and to overcome a challenging economic situation," he said.
"I also look forward to discussing the EU's relations with Türkiye – an important partner and influence in its region.
"We want to see progress made towards a comprehensive settlement in Cyprus, and will discuss how best to support UN efforts towards that goal."
Taoiseach Simon Harris with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels, 11-4-24. Image: X/@IrelandRepBruOn Thursday, the meeting will focus on the EU Single Market with former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta presenting an independent report on its future to the leaders.
Mr Harris said he will be "arguing strongly" for a deeper single market with a more ambitious trade agenda and reduced administrative burdens for businesses, greater access to private investment and a resilient agricultural sector.
The Taoiseach met a number of EU representatives last week including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
