Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for the question. The International Criminal Court is under attack. We are seeing this very regularly in many parts of the globe. Last week I met the President of the ICC in Dublin and we discussed ways in which Ireland can continue to defend the court from sanctions. The president thanked Ireland for its support to date, but having discussed it with her, frankly I was shocked at the impact sanctions, threats and a threatening environment is having on its work. I intend to raise this with European counterparts. Europe really needs to give consideration to how we can much better support the ICC.

I strongly condemn the continuing Israeli action in Gaza. International humanitarian law makes it very clear civilians must not be targeted in an armed conflict and that the provision of humanitarian relief must be facilitated and protected. I call for a full and independent investigation into the horrific events that have been outlined in these reports.

The International Criminal Court has the jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute any international crimes committed on Palestinian territory, including by Israeli citizens. I checked in advance of taking this question that no further referral is needed for the ICC to be seized of the matter. It already has that jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute. The ICC prosecutor has already confirmed he is conducting an investigation into the escalation of violence in Palestine, including the events of 7 October 2023. To date the ICC has issued three arrest warrants in relation to the situation in Palestine. Two of these warrants are for the Israeli Prime Minister and the former defence minister. The third warrant was for the Hamas commander, who has since been confirmed dead. Ireland supports the investigations of the ICC into all situations before the court, including Palestine. It is vital we allow the court to carry out its important work in an independent and impartial manner. During my meeting with the president of the ICC we discussed ways in which Ireland can continue to defend the court from US sanctions and she thanked Ireland for its support. We will continue to work with like-minded states to support and protect the court.

See this speech in context