Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 April 2009
502 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position on the call for an immediate arms embargo on Israel, Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups to be in force until such time as there is no longer a threat that such arms can be used to commit serious violations of international law. [15513/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have made clear the Government's strong condemnation of all uses of military force contrary to international law. This can relate to the types of weapons used and to the way in which weapons are used. It applies to all uses intentionally aimed at causing civilian casualties. There is no realistic proposal for an arms embargo which would address this problem in relation to the Middle East. There is no prospect of international agreement at UN or EU level for such an arms embargo. A total embargo would be opposed by many on the basis that Israel is entitled to defend itself, although I have made clear that this right is not unlimited and does not negate the rights of others. Nor would such an embargo realistically address the issue of supply of weapons to Hamas and other groups, including for example missiles used solely for attacks on civilians, since these weapons are supplied covertly.
