Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
41. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she is aware of the 21 Irish people participating in the 2026 Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza; the engagement her Department has had to ensure the safe passage through international waters of these Irish citizens; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32647/26]
View answerI am aware that Irish citizens are participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla. My officials are in direct and ongoing contact with its Ireland-based organisers.
I am also aware of an operation that took place on Wednesday 29 April in waters close to Greece that resulted in the interception of several ships participating in the Gaza Sumud Flotilla, and the detention of seven Irish citizens.
I condemned the interception of vessels in international waters, and called on the Israeli authorities to release all Irish citizens, to uphold their obligations under international law, and to guarantee the safety and welfare of all those on board the Flotilla.
I can confirm that all seven Irish citizens were released in Greece and, after a short bus journey, were received by officials from our Embassy to Greece, as well as by our Honorary Consul, who provided them with consular assistance.
I note that a number of Irish citizens remain on board the Flotilla. While my Department continues to advise against all travel to Israel and Palestine, and advises that, should the security situation there deteriorate, our capacity to provide consular assistance might be limited, my priority remains their safety and wellbeing.
With this in mind, through our Embassy in Israel, my Department is in contact with the Israeli authorities to ensure that all our citizens are treated with dignity and in accordance with international law.
I can assure you that officials from across my Department, including those in relevant Embassies, will continue to actively monitor the situation, to engage with the relevant authorities and, should it prove necessary, to provide consular assistance.
