Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
26. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs whether enquiries will be made to assist the journalists and their families (details supplied) and who are currently stuck in Gaza and attempting to get out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56733/23]
View answerI am acutely aware of the dire situation faced by civilians in Gaza. For this reason, calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and access for humanitarian supplies is the central focus of my engagement.
I am particularly conscious that journalists in situations of armed conflict and adjacent areas often face extreme danger. Journalists are afforded protection under international humanitarian law because they are civilians. Deliberate attacks against journalists are forbidden.
In this regard, Ireland, along with partners, urgently draws attention to the rules and responsibilities related to the protection of journalists and media workers in conflict, in compliance and consistent with international humanitarian law which includes prohibitions against directly targeting civilians and taking all feasible precautions to protect civilians.
With regard to individual cases, including those to which the Deputy refers, the mandate of the Department of Foreign Affairs is to provide consular to support to Irish citizens. The Department is very limited in its ability to assist those in Gaza who are not Irish citizens, or dependants accompanying Irish citizens.
