Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
143. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to provide details of Ireland's response to the latest attacks on the global Sumud Flotilla, which currently has a number of Irish citizens onboard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33561/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra156. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps her Department is taking to ensure the safety of Irish citizens on the Global Sumud flotilla who have been intercepted by the state of Israel in international water; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33764/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra158. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the action she has taken in relation to the seizing of seven Irish citizens that were part of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33836/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra159. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the further action she will take in relation to the seizing of seven Irish citizens that were part of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33838/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra160. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if she will raise the seizing of seven Irish citizens that were part of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla (details supplied) at an EU Council level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33840/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 143, 156, 158, 159 and 160 together.
I am aware of an operation that took place on Wednesday 29 April in waters close to Greece. This resulted in the interception of several ships participating in the Gaza Sumud Flotilla, and the detention of seven Irish citizens.
As I am sure you are aware, I condemned the interception of vessels in international waters, and called on the Israeli authorities to release all Irish citizens detained, and to uphold their obligations under international law to ensure 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 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, who had been concerned for their wellbeing.
Throughout this period, my Department, including our Embassies in Athens and Tel Aviv, liaised with the relevant authorities. Consular officers in Dublin were also assigned to maintain direct and continuous contact with the families of those detained, in order to provide them with regular updates as the situation evolved.
I am aware that there are a number of Irish citizens still aboard the Gaza Sumud Flotilla. While my Department continues to advise against all travel to both Israel and Palestine, their safety and wellbeing is my primary concern.
I have instructed officials from across my Department, including those at relevant Embassies in the region, to continue closely monitoring the situation.
