Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
87. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has discussed the increasingly high levels of Palestinian civilian casualties in the occupied West Bank with the new Israeli government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13389/23]
View answerI am deeply concerned at the high level of civilian casualties in the occupied Palestinian territory. Last year was the deadliest year for Palestinians living in the West Bank since the UN began recording fatalities in 2005. This negative trend has continued into 2023.
Israel, as an occupying power, has an obligation under international law to protect civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory. It must adhere to international law.
I have written to Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, noting increased levels of civilian casualties and reiterating Ireland’s commitment to a just and sustainable peace on the basis of a two-State solution. I look forward to having the chance to speak with Minister Cohen on a range of issues in due course.
I discussed the security situation in the West Bank in a phone call with the Palestinian Foreign Minister, Riad Malki, on 18 January, during which he shared his deep concern at the deteriorating situation. I also welcome that the Foreign Affairs Council on 23 January provided an opportunity for both Prime Minister Shtayyeh and Foreign Minister Malki to raise these troubling developments with the EU collectively.
Further to my direct contacts with my Israeli and Palestinian counterparts, Irish officials continue to engage in regular dialogue with the Israeli and Palestinian authorities on matters of mutual concern, including in relation to the protection of civilians. I also have regular engagement with international partners on this issue, including in my meeting with Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ayman Safadi, at the Munich Security Conference in February, and my meeting the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on 15 March.
