(Israel adds statements and details)

The Irish government is expected to announce recognition of Palestinian statehood on Wednesday, a move strongly opposed by Israel.

EU member states Ireland, Spain, Slovenia and Malta have indicated in recent weeks that they intend to proceed with the recognition of a Palestinian state, believing that a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.

Israel's Foreign Ministry warned against such a move on Tuesday, it said in a post on the social network.

Don't be a pawn in Hamas' game, the ministry wrote.

The Irish government said on Tuesday evening that the prime minister and foreign minister would address the media on Wednesday morning, but did not specify what topics would be discussed.

Since 1988, 139 of the 193 UN member states have recognized Palestinian statehood.

(By Padraic Halpin, Conor Humphreys; French version by Camille Reynaud)