Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 May 2026
166. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the actions she and her Department are taking to ensure the safety of the Irish citizens aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38694/26]
View answerI am aware of an Israeli operation, beginning on 18 May, to intercept vessels participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters to the west of Cyprus. This resulted in the detention of 14 Irish citizens.
As I am sure you are aware, I condemned the illegal interception of vessels in international waters, and called on the Israeli authorities to uphold their obligations under international law, with a view to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all those illegally detained. In that context, I also called for the immediate release of our citizens.
While my Department has long advised against all travel to Israel and Palestine, in this case, their safety and wellbeing is my primary concern.
I assure you that officials from across my Department continue to closely monitor the situation,, and that our Embassy in Israel has also been in direct contact with the Israeli authorities to secure consular access and support for our citizens as soon as possible.
I can further assure you that consular officers in Dublin are also in direct and continuous contact with the families of those detained and with the Ireland-based Flotilla organisers.
As you know, a similar interception operation took place on Wednesday 29 April in waters close to Greece, resulting in the interception of several ships, and the detention of seven Irish citizens.
I can confirm that all seven Irish citizens were subsequently released in Greece and, were received by officials from our Embassy there, as well as our Honorary Consul, who provided consular assistance. This included the offer of food, water, support arranging accommodation, and access to the means to contact their loved ones at home.
Rest assured, that my Department will provide consular assistance to impacted Irish citizens.
