Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
46. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs his response to the bombing by Israel of a World Central Kitchen team that were travelling in a deconflicted zone in two armoured cars branded with the WCK logo; if he will initiate any sanction against Israel for this attack which killed seven aid workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15159/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is appalling that humanitarian workers have been killed in an Israeli strike while providing lifesaving aid to the people of Gaza. Full accountability and a thorough, independent investigation is needed.
According to the UN, over 200 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since 7 October. This is an outrage. Aid groups are working under intolerable conditions, and I am deeply concerned by reports that organisations such as World Central Kitchen have been forced to halt operations due a lack of safety which Israel is obliged to provide.
Israel must immediately facilitate full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access into and throughout the Gaza Strip, in particular by road. This is clearly Israel’s responsibility under international humanitarian law. The blocking by Israel of aid into Gaza constitutes the intentional obstruction of life-saving assistance.
Ireland does not impose unilateral sanctions regimes, but implements UN and EU sanctions.
As the Deputy is aware, calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire have been and will continue to be a central priority for the Government. Civilians in Gaza urgently need the fighting to stop, and a significant increase in humanitarian access. It is clear that this is the desire of the overwhelming majority of the international community, along with the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, urgent and effective humanitarian access, and the protection of civilians and humanitarian staff.
