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

I thank the Deputy for raising the question. Ireland has in recent weeks engaged in several concrete initiatives regarding the conflict, all of which have been underpinned by our clear and principled position.

In view of the unacceptable levels of violence being perpetrated by certain Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities in the West Bank, in particular since 7 October 2023, I have underlined my strong support for EU sanctions targeting violent or extreme Israeli settlers. This is a matter I have raised with my European counterparts at successive meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council. During the Council’s meeting in February, 26 member states indicated that they are ready to move ahead with sanctions on this issue. Ireland has called for rapid presentation of proposals in line with commitments given by the High Representative.

While Ireland continues to press to agree sanctions at EU level, officials are also examining options to work in concert with a group of EU member states to implement measures at a national level. Additionally, the Taoiseach and the Spanish Prime Minister have written to Commission President von der Leyen, expressing deep concern at the deteriorating situation in Gaza and calling for an urgent review of whether Israel is complying with its human rights obligations under the European Union-Israel Association Agreement.

As the Deputy is aware, calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire have been and will continue to be a central priority for the Government. Civilians in Gaza urgently need the fighting to stop and a significant and sustained increase in humanitarian aid. It is clear that this is the desire of the overwhelming majority of the international community, along with the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, urgent and effective humanitarian access, and the protection of civilians.

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