I am deeply concerned about the the conflict in Gaza, and the dreadful impact it is having on civilians. The loss of life is shocking and the humanitarian situation is unconscionable, which is why Ireland has been to the fore in calling urgently for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.
These events have raised serious questions of compliance with international law, in particular international humanitarian law (IHL). The Government has made clear that we fully support impartial and independent investigations into any and all breaches of IHL and other relevant branches of international law by the appropriate authorities.
Ensuring effective accountability is a central part of Ireland’s foreign policy. We aim to take actions that are most effective to practically promote this goal. This is why we announced last week a voluntary contribution of €3 million to the International Criminal Court, which is currently carrying out an investigation into the possible commission of atrocity crimes in Palestine, as well as concurrently dealing with a number of other situations around the world where such crimes may have been committed, all of which will benefit from the much-needed funding.
The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide has been ratified or acceded to by 153 states including Ireland, which acceded to the Convention in 1976. All Contracting Parties to the Convention undertake to prevent and punish genocide. We will continue to support accountability for all breaches of international law, and will take every opportunity to remind all parties to the conflict of their binding obligations under international law, in particular international humanitarian law.
