Statement by Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Israeli air strikes in Gaza

"I condemn Israel’s airstrikes on Gaza which have resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths.

"I call on all parties to respect the ceasefire and hostage release deal, and to return to talks aimed at implementing the second phase of the deal. They should implement their commitments in full.

"For the sake of the civilians in Gaza, who have already endured unimaginable hardships, there must be an urgent end to all hostilities.

"The remaining hostages must be released. Their families have suffered for too long. I have consistently called for the unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza.

"There needs to be an immediate resumption of humanitarian access to the people of Gaza, and at scale. This is not only an obligation under international humanitarian law but a moral imperative.

"I urge all sides to step back from the brink of the resumption of all-out war and to instead focus on agreeing a permanent end to the fighting and on a pathway to peace.

"I will be discussing the serious situation in the Middle East with EU leaders at this week’s meeting of the European Council and will be urging that we agree a clear and united EU position aimed at stopping any further escalation."