Press release
Statement by Tánaiste on Irish citizens and dependants departing Gaza
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
"I am delighted that during the course of today up to 25 additional Irish citizens and dependants should be able to cross the Rafah Border Crossing from Gaza into Egypt. This will bring the total number of citizens and dependants assisted to depart Gaza by consular staff to 51. We will continue to work consistently with the relevant authorities on additional cases where these arise and to assist in instances where other Irish citizens and dependents wish to exit Gaza.
"All of those who crossed the border today have been met by staff from the Irish Embassy in Cairo and provided with consular assistance and support. I want to recognise the tireless work of the Embassies in Cairo and Tel Aviv, our Representative Office in Ramallah, and officials in my department in Dublin since the outbreak of this crisis. Our consular staff have been in daily contact with our citizens and their families to provide support and assistance.
"I am conscious that many of those who left Gaza over the last few days have been deeply traumatised by their experience. As they return to Ireland in the coming days, they will need all of our support as they begin to restart their lives.
"I also remain deeply concerned about the situation of hostages in Gaza, and call for their immediate and unconditional release. Today, Emily Hand will turn 9. This loving and talented young girl needs to be returned to her family immediately. My department will leave no stone unturned in pursuing that outcome.
"The high number of civilian casualties in Gaza in recent weeks is shocking. I reiterate my call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and an urgent scaling up of rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access. Ireland has been clear that International Humanitarian Law applies in all conflicts, in all circumstances, to state and non-state actors alike. We can not see this violence, destruction and displacement continue."