Statement by the Tánaiste on 7 October anniversary

Today marks the anniversary of the heinous terror attacks carried out by Hamas and other terrorist groups against Israel.

The horror of these attacks remains imprinted in our minds. I reiterate Ireland’s unequivocal condemnation of them.

I think today of the hostages still in Gaza and their families who desperately want them home. I call again for their immediate release.

I recognise the hurt and sorrow of the Israeli people, and of the Jewish and Israeli communities here in Ireland and throughout the world.

I express our profound sympathy to all who are mourning loved ones brutally murdered, and think especially of the family and friends of Kim Damti.

My thoughts are with Emily Hand and her family, wishing her continuing strength to overcome the trauma she and so many experienced.

No young adult should be murdered attending a music festival. No young child should spend her ninth birthday in the hands of terrorists.

It is not possible to view this anniversary in isolation from the justifiable outrage at the death and destruction suffered by ordinary Palestinians in Gaza over the past twelve months.

Ireland’s position is clear and on the record. The violence must stop.

There must be an immediate ceasefire and hostage release deal, and a massive scaling up of humanitarian assistance into Gaza.

Our thoughts are with the Lebanese people. The level of death, destruction and displacement is shocking and unacceptable.

We must act quickly to avoid further regional escalation and urgently revive a political process.

The most effective rejection of terrorism and extremism and the greatest mark of respect to all who have suffered in this conflict is to redouble our efforts now to secure a lasting peace between the Israeli and Palestinian peoples.

ENDS

Press Office

7 October 2024