Middle East

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024

Wednesday, 20 March 2024

Questions (55)

Bríd Smith

Question:

55. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware of the case of a person (details supplied), a Palestinian lawyer and human rights defender, who was arrested by Israeli forces on 19 January 2024, and whose detention has been strongly condemned by Front Line Defenders and the International Observatory of Lawyers at Risk; if he will raise their case at the highest diplomatic and political level in an effort to secure their earliest release; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12011/24]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs

I am aware of the concerning case outlined by the Deputy. I am monitoring the situation through our Missions in the region. My officials are continuing to closely follow issues of arbitrary and administrative detention and conditions in detention. These issues are also being discussed and raised through our Missions.

This is consistent with calls made by Ireland in its bilateral engagement with the Israeli authorities as well as at the United Nations. Ireland has repeatedly called on the Israeli authorities to end the practice of administrative detention completely.

We have also repeatedly highlighted the applicability of international human rights standards and international humanitarian law in respect of detainees, in particular obligations under the Fourth Geneva Convention. Detainees must have the right to be informed of the charges underlying any detention, have access to legal assistance, and receive a fair trial.