Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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1175. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will urge Israel to stop violence against civilians in Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33151/14]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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During the course of the recent Gaza conflict, I repeatedly called for the end of attacks by both sides, and especially those which were aimed at or led to civilian casualties. I categorically condemned such attacks. In view of the very high level of civilian casualties in Gaza, I made clear in particular that the level of force being used by Israel could not in any way be regarded as proportionate or be justified by self-defence. I also stated that I believed both sides were failing to make every effort to avoid civilian casualties.

These points were made by me repeatedly in public statements, in statements here in the Dáil and in the Seanad, and by Irish representatives abroad. Many of these can be found on my Department’s website. These views were also reflected in Conclusions adopted by the EU Foreign Affairs Council on 22 July and 15 August, following discussions in which I took part. Our concerns and views were also conveyed directly to the Israeli Embassy here and by our Embassy in Tel Aviv to the Israeli Foreign Ministry. We do not have any direct contacts with Hamas.

The renewal of the ceasefire in Gaza through the agreement on 26 August was therefore extremely welcome, and unlike earlier attempts, this ceasefire has lasted. In welcoming the ceasefire, however, and subsequently, I have stressed that this opportunity must be taken for a genuine and concerted political effort to resolve the problems of Gaza, resulting in an end to the policy of closures. Otherwise this appalling episode will simply be repeated, and the cycle of violence renewed.