Middle East

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 November 2023

Wednesday, 22 November 2023

Questions (22)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

22. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if, given the indications of wide-spread violations of international humanitarian law being committed by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip, and in light of the IDF's widespread commission of war crimes related to Israel's settlement regime in the occupied West Bank, and illegally annexed East Jerusalem and the Syrian Golan Heights, Ireland has communicated advisories to Irish citizens and residents of Ireland who may be serving or volunteering in the IDF on the potential legal consequences and individual criminal liability that would arise under Irish criminal law (Geneva Conventions Act 1962 and International Criminal Court Act 2006) for any of their acts or omissions in the course of their service or volunteering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51321/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

I have been consistently clear that International Humanitarian Law applies in all conflicts, in all circumstances, to state and non-state actors alike. All potential violations of International Humanitarian Law, by state and non-state parties, should be thoroughly investigated.

I have also underlined repeatedly that Israel’s response to the attacks of 7 October must comply with the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. Likewise, the taking of hostages and the use of human shields are clear breaches of international humanitarian law.

My priority is to take relevant and practical steps in support of the role of the International Criminal Court. Last week the Government announced a voluntary contribution of €3 million to the Court. This contribution is in response to the urgent needs of the Court, which the Court’s prosecutor has repeatedly emphasised, most recently in his statement of 17 November.

With regards to the application of Irish criminal law, a number of offences, including war crimes, apply extra-territorially in respect of Irish nationals.