Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail)

I move:

That Seanad Éireann:

recognises: - the absolute horror of the war and famine being inflicted on the people of Gaza and the absolute need for an immediate ceasefire to allow for food and aid to be delivered and also for the hostages to be released;

- the Irish Government’s ongoing commitment in recognising the State of Palestine and for a two-state solution to end this catastrophic war;

- the United Nations Commission of Inquiry which found that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza;

- the need for international humanitarian law to be upheld by all; acknowledges: - the Government’s principled and consistent leadership in calling for respect for international law, in advocating for humanitarian access, and in providing substantial humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict;

- the Government’s active engagement at the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and other international fora to call for an end to the hostilities and the need to ensure aid reaches people on the ground;

- Ireland’s commitment to multilateral diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and to supporting efforts aimed at ensuring long-term stability in the region including a two-state solution;

- the Government’s intention to implement the commitment made in the Programme for Government to introduce the Occupied Territories Bill following the July 2024 International Court of Justice advisory opinion; and calls for: - humanitarian aid to reach the people of Gaza immediately and without obstruction, including through the protection of aid convoys and safe corridors for medical and relief personnel;

- an immediate and lasting ceasefire to prevent further loss of civilian life, to allow for the delivery of aid, and to create space for renewed dialogue and a just and lasting peace;

- the unconditional release of all hostages;

- the Government to continue to use its diplomatic voice at the UN, EU and other international bodies to champion the protection of civilians and the pursuit of peace;

- the Government to utilise the United Nations General Assembly to re-emphasise the need to recognise the State of Palestine and to encourage a global effort to put an end to this war;

- all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and the provision of urgent medical and humanitarian assistance.

I will be sharing time with Senator Comyn.