I have been engaging intensively with EU, regional and international partners, including the US, since the beginning of this crisis in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory. During all of these engagements I have conveyed the same message: there is an urgent need for an immediate and sustainable humanitarian ceasefire; the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza; and a significant scale-up of humanitarian access and supplies into Gaza. All of Ireland’s diplomatic efforts are focused on these core points.
It is also important that our efforts aimed at addressing the immediate crisis also lay the foundation for a pathway towards a sustainable peace in the long term. Ireland’s is seeking to find a way to change the reality on the ground and to protect and encourage a peace process that can deliver a two-State solution.
Some of my most recent actions include intensive discussions with Senior Members of the US Congress, EU counterparts, Arab partners and the core provider of aid in Gaza, the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). I also visited the region on 23-24 April, including the Rafah crossing, Al Arish Humanitarian Hub and Al Arish Hospital, where I saw first-hand the dire need to increase access for humanitarian aid. I will continue to advocate at every level for an immediate sustainable ceasefire and the provision of safe, unimpeded and effective humanitarian assistance.