Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As I said earlier, I am very concerned by the demolitions and evictions in the occupied Palestinian territory. Demolitions and seizures of Palestinian property and humanitarian aid accelerated in 2022, which saw a record number of Palestinians affected by demolitions, evictions and confiscations. I have been consistently forthright in voicing my opposition to Israeli settlement activity, including demolitions and evictions, in the occupied West Bank. These actions are a clear violation of international law and stand in the way of a just, lasting and comprehensive peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

Ireland has been proactive in ensuring that these issues are highlighted in international fora, including during our recent tenure on the United Nations Security Council. Ireland has repeatedly urged Israel not to proceed with planned demolitions and to cease all settlement activities. Ireland has raised these issues directly with the Israeli Government, including during visits to the region. Ireland’s embassy in Tel Aviv also raises these matters in its regular contacts with the Israeli authorities. Ireland's representative office in Ramallah has made a number of visits, along with EU colleagues, to sites of concern in the West Bank.

Ireland is part of a group of EU member states pursuing compensation for humanitarian structures, funded by donors such as Ireland, through the West Bank Protection Consortium. The consortium has sought compensation of over €1,170,000 in respect of confiscated or demolished assets since 2015. Ireland provided €300,000 in funding to the consortium in 2022, underlining our commitment to reducing the vulnerability of Palestinian communities living in Area C of the West Bank.

Ireland remains committed to supporting all efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting two-state solution, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, on the basis of international law and agreed international parameters.

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