Statement by the Tánaiste on Israeli Operations in Gaza and the West Bank

The continuation of Israeli strikes in Gaza is unacceptable. Reports of dozens of deaths in the past few days alone are a brutal reminder of the ongoing death and destruction that the people of Gaza are enduring. I am especially concerned about reports of further attacks on hospitals and medical facilities, which are particularly egregious with devastating consequences for the most vulnerable.

Israeli operations also continue in the West Bank. I am appalled at the severe damage caused to the UNRWA office in the Nur Shams Camp by IDF bulldozers. The Commissioner General of UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, has said that the facility was a hub to deliver basic services to more than 14,000 Palestine refugees in the camp and can no longer be used. UNRWA and other UN actors provide essential support to extremely vulnerable people and must be allowed to carry out this work.

Israel must fulfil its obligations under international humanitarian law.

Hamas must agree a ceasefire and the immediate release of all hostages.

This violence must come to an end.

I will continue to work with partners to demand this ceasefire, the release of all hostages and a massive scaling up of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Ends

Press Office

01 November 2024