Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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336. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views regarding the stated intention of the new Israeli Government to prioritise, advance and develop settlements in the Palestinian West Bank, including its validation of illegally built outposts and the further annexation of territory; his views on whether such actions could put an end to any remaining hopes for a two-state solution and create a major obstacle to peace in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3214/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland’s position on Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory is crystal clear; the continued establishment and expansion of settlements violates international law, undermines prospects for a two-State solution and is a major obstacle to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.

This position was reiterated by Ireland at the meeting of the UN Security Council on 19 December, which focused on the issue of Israeli settlements. On that occasion, Ireland also led a joint press statement by a number of States demanding that Israel immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and that it fully respect all of its legal obligations in that regard.

It is deeply concerning that the stated intentions of the Israeli Government continue to show disregard for the clear international consensus around this issue. It is important that the international community supports the Palestinian Authority in its recourse to legal and political responses to the occupation. I discussed these issues with EU Foreign Ministers, Palestinian Prime Minister Shtayyeh and Foreign Minister Malki in Brussels on 23 January.

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