The scale of humanitarian need in Gaza is enormous, and this has been accentuated by interruptions in the flow of aid and the wider disruption caused by the conflict. Ireland is engaging actively at Ministerial and official level with the EU and with UN partners, focusing on the need to continue to press for unhindered humanitarian access. At the EU-Israel Association Council in February, the Tánaiste expressed grave concern about the catastrophic situation and underlined the EU’s call for full access for humanitarian aid.
Ireland has provided over €84 million in support of the Palestinian people since the beginning of 2023, including €58 million in core support to UNRWA. €72 million of this total support has been provided since October 2023. The most efficient way to support the people of Gaza has been through UNRWA which has been the backbone of the humanitarian response.
With our core funding of €20 million for 2025, UNRWA continues to deliver assistance in accordance with its mandate, including psychological support to over 300,000 children, as well as other health and education interventions. We have also been providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza through other agencies including the World Food Programme and the Red Cross. We have also supplied over 116 tonnes of relief goods through our Rapid Response Initiative.
Government approval was secured in 2024 for Ireland to evacuate up to 30 sick children from Gaza for treatment and care. December saw the arrival of 8 children, and their family members, for treatment in Ireland having been evacuated via Egypt, under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The Department of Health and the HSE continue to engage with the World Health Organisation and EU to provide for further missions.
The Government has repeatedly called on Israel to comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. Under international humanitarian law, Israel must protect civilians in Gaza and ensure that the essential needs of the population are met.
We need an urgent end to hostilities and urge all parties to return to talks aimed at implementing the second phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal.
