Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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333. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade with regard to his recent statement that Ireland stands ready to support a just and lasting two-state solution based on international law and internationally agreed parameters as the only sustainable prospect that will enable Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, if Ireland's backing for such an initiative is contingent on other E.U or U.N. member states spearheading such a proposal; if Ireland would be willing to take the leading role in view of our strong position on human rights, international law and the taking of territory by force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11619/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland plays a leadership role at both EU and UN level in taking a consistent, clear, and firm position in relation to the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory.

Ireland engages regularly on this issue in the context of the EU, including through my attendance at the EU Foreign Affairs Council and regular bilateral contacts with my EU counterparts. At the Foreign Affairs Council on 23 January, EU Foreign Ministers had an exchange with the Palestinian Prime Minister, Mohammad Shtayyeh, and Palestinian Foreign Minister, Dr Riad Malki.

In advance of this meeting, I highlighted the need to take concrete steps to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the European Union and the Palestinian Authority. I further underlined the need for clear messaging on the issue of Israeli settlement activities and for renewed and concrete efforts to restore a political horizon. I welcome that the meeting resulted in a commitment to set up an annual high-level political dialogue between the EU and the Palestinian Authority.

The Middle East Peace Process was also a key priority for Ireland during our tenure on the UN Security Council, and Ireland engaged actively in monthly Security Council meetings on the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. At the most recent meeting on 19 December, Ireland repeated our call on Israel to cease all settlement activity and stressed the need for accountability in respect of all civilian deaths. Following the meeting, Ireland led a joint press statement with a number of States, reiterating this call for accountability and underlining the urgent need to restore a political horizon towards a two-State solution. Ireland continues to take opportunities to raise this issue in appropriate UN fora, including the Human Rights Council and General Assembly.

Ireland’s Embassy in Tel Aviv and Representative Office in Ramallah take an active role in monitoring developments on the ground and promoting progress towards a two-State solution. Ireland has allocated both missions additional resources since 2021, enhancing their capacity to engage with an increased range of partners and to respond effectively to ongoing developments.