Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2023
94. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is concerned about recent statements by the incoming Israeli Prime Minister, and their clear sanctioning of further illegal settlements and annexations in the West Bank; if he will raise this at EU and UN forums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4397/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra115. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the new Israeli government’s stated intentions to develop settlements in the Palestinian West Bank and the further annexation of territory; the Government’s plans to react to the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4383/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 94 and 115 together.
Ireland’s position on Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory is clear; the continued establishment and expansion of settlements is a violation of international law and is unacceptable. This position was reiterated at the UN Security Council on 19 December, which focused on the implementation of UNSC Resolution 2334. On that occasion, Ireland also led a joint press statement by a number of States demanding that Israel immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and that it fully respect all of its legal obligations in that regard.
Ireland’s Embassy in Tel Aviv also raises the issue directly in its regular contacts with the Israeli Government, and Ireland's Representative Office in Ramallah has made a number of visits along with EU colleagues to sensitive sites of concern in the West Bank, including Masafer Yatta.
It is deeply concerning that the stated intentions of the Israeli Government continue to show disregard for the clear international consensus around this issue. It is important that the international community supports the Palestinian Authority in its recourse to legal and political responses to the occupation.
I had the opportunity to discuss this issue in a phone call with 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.
Ireland remains committed to supporting all efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting two-State solution, with the Jerusalem as the capital of both States, on the basis of international law and agreed international parameters.
