Press release
Tánaiste calls for extension of Gaza truce
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
"The last four days of a limited truce in Gaza have seen the release of some hostages and the delivery of increased humanitarian assistance so desperately needed by the civilian population of Gaza.
"I appeal now to all parties to build on the important steps that have been taken – the cessation of hostilities, the delivery of vital aid and the release of some hostages – and extend and expand this truce.
"Ireland has repeatedly called for a sustainable humanitarian ceasefire to be established and I earnestly hope this happens now. This conflict must end. Gaza’s civilian population cannot be allowed to suffer any further.
"Extension and expansion of this truce would allow the sustained humanitarian assistance that is needed at scale to avoid this tragedy further deepening.
"I strongly reiterate my previous calls for all hostages to be immediately and unconditionally released. We in Ireland were delighted and relieved this weekend by the release of Emily Hand, the Irish-Israeli citizen abducted by Hamas. It is our sincere hope that all remaining hostages will soon also be reunited with their friends and families.
"There can be no military solution to this crisis and we again urge all parties to take this chance to maintain and build on the positive developments that we have seen these recent days and find a path to peace and security."