Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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12. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade what engagements he has had with the Israeli ambassador since 7 October 2023; the outcome of these engagements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3379/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Engagement between my Department and the Ambassador of Israel to Ireland is routinely carried out at senior official level. Such engagement is frequent and particularly important in the context of the crisis that is currently unfolding in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.

The current Ambassador of Israel to Ireland, Dana Erlich, presented her credentials on 20 September. In the immediate aftermath of the terror attack by Hamas on Israel on 7 October, I spoke with Ambassador Erlich, underlining Ireland’s condemnation of the attack and expressing my condolences to the people of Israel, including the Israeli community based here in Ireland. I subsequently met with the Ambassador in the context of my meeting with families and representatives of the Israeli hostages, including the family of Emily Hand, on 14 November.

During my visit to Israel in early September, Dana Erlich, in her capacity as Ambassador-designate to Ireland, participated in several elements of the programme. In addition, as is standard for such visits, Ambassador Erlich also participated in the official programme during my visit to Israel in mid-November.

The Israeli Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, attended the EU Foreign Affairs Council on Monday. His presence enabled me to communicate a number of key concerns directly to him. In particular, I stressed that the large-scale civilian casualties and destruction cannot be allowed continue. I demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire – a demand echoed by the majority of the international community. I also noted that the violence being carried out by settlers in the West Bank is unacceptable. I stressed the need for accountability for this violence, noting Ireland's support for EU sanctions against extreme Israeli settlers.

Such extensive engagement, at both an official and political level, with the Israeli Government are crucial to maintain in times of conflict and tension.