Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 March 2023
222. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he considers the unequal treatment of Palestinians in Israel and in the occupied Palestinian territory, as well as the discriminatory practices towards the Palestinian people on a regular basis, as crimes against humanity which the international community is obliged to oppose and to act, individually and collectively, to end. [10646/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra223. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he agrees with the former Attorney General of Israel (details supplied) that this is now a one-state reality, with two different peoples living with unequal rights, and that Israel's entire society is implicit in this unjust reality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10647/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 222 and 223 together.
Ireland’s focus is on seeking to find a way to change the reality on the ground and to protect and encourage a peace process that can deliver a two-State solution, which is the Government's priority.
I have been consistently forthright in expressing concern regarding the unequal treatment of Palestinians in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory. I urge Israel to abide by international law in relation to demolitions, evictions, and settlements. Israel has obligations under international law to people living in the occupied Palestinian territory. Ireland was particularly proactive in raising these issues at the UN Security Council during our tenure.
The international community should support Palestinian efforts in seeking legal responses to the occupation. Ireland supported a UN Resolution which includes a request by the UN General Assembly for an advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice, on issues arising from Israel’s continuing occupation of Palestinian territory.
Ireland will continue to raise our concerns regarding discriminatory practices towards the Palestinian people on a regular basis directly with the Israeli authorities, including during visits to the region, as well as at EU and UN level.
