Tánaiste Micheál Martin has called for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” and release of hostages in Gaza.
The Foreign Affairs Minister said the need for a humanitarian ceasefire, “unconditional” release of hostages and humanitarian access “is more urgent than ever”.
“A widening of this conflict would have devastating consequences for the region and for the world,” he said.
“The international community simply cannot allow further civilian suffering and deaths.
“I urge all parties in the region to exercise restraint and avoid escalation.”
'Not limited to de-escalation'
Mr Martin noted the recent attacks on ships in the Red Sea in Yemen are having “an increasingly serious impact on global trade”.
“As always, it is the poorest and most vulnerable communities – in the Middle East, Africa and globally – that are the most severely affected,” he said.
Mr Martin also noted the efforts of the international community “should not be limited to de-escalation".
“We must take concrete steps to achieve long-term peace, stability and security for Palestinians and Israelis and for the region as a whole,” he said.
“This can only be done through a sustained and serious commitment to a two-state solution; not as an oft-repeated shibboleth but as a concrete reality.”
Ceasefire in Gaza
In November Mr Martin and the Government voted to “pursue all possible avenues at the EU and the UN to build an international alliance for peace” and call for an “immediate ceasefire” in Israel and Palestine.
The Government defeated a motion proposed by the Social Democrats to expel Israeli Ambassador Dana Erlich, which caused heated debate and protest.
Another motion to refer Israel to the International Criminal Court over its actions in Gaza was also defeated by Government by 77 votes to 58.
The EU also called for a “humanitarian pause” on the conflict in November to allow aid to come into Gaza.
A number of protests in solidarity with Gaza will take place today, including the Cork Palestine Solidarity Campaign holding its 13th rally at 1pm today.
