2025-05-11T12:04:35Z

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Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman has raised alarms regarding Israel's actions in Gaza, asserting that the nation has effectively put the world on notice about its intentions to commit what he describes as ethnic cleansing against the Palestinian population in the region.

The situation escalated earlier this week when Israel's Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, made a statement suggesting that a military victory for Israel in Gaza would result in the Palestinian territory being "entirely destroyed," implying that its residents would be compelled to leave for other countries. Such remarks have intensified fears and concerns about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.

In response to these developments, foreign ministers from several countries, including Ireland, Iceland, Luxembourg, Norway, Slovenia, and Spain, have expressed their "grave concern" regarding the escalating military actions in Gaza. They warned that any further aggression would exacerbate the already catastrophic circumstances for the civilian Palestinian population and jeopardize the lives of hostages still held captive in the conflict.

During an appearance on RTÉ's The Week in Politics, O'Gorman urged the Irish Government to expedite the passage of the Occupied Territories Bill. He emphasized that swift action on this legislation could send a powerful message internationally, signaling a significant shift in Ireland's diplomatic approach to the ongoing crisis. O'Gorman expressed optimism, stating, "There is no reason why this cannot happen before the summer recess," highlighting the urgent need for legislative action.

Concurrently, Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) Simon Harris has been engaging in discussions with his counterparts in the Netherlands and Spain. His goal is to foster a more collaborative environment at the EU level, aimed at reviewing the EU-Israel association agreement. This diplomatic initiative seeks to enhance efforts to support the people of Gaza, especially as the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.

Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton reiterated the Government's commitment to advancing the Occupied Territories Bill. However, she emphasized the importance of ensuring that any legislative action aligns with legal standards. "We are absolutely committed to doing this. We need to get this right. This is not a policy difference," she stated during the same program.

In her remarks, Minister Naughton acknowledged that Harris had recently discussed strategies with his counterparts in the Netherlands and Spain to consolidate support for the people of Gaza within the EU framework. Moreover, she indicated a willingness to publish the Attorney General's advice concerning the legal complexities surrounding the inclusion of a ban on service in the Occupied Territories Bill. This legal distinction has been criticized by opposition parties, who view it as a potential delaying tactic.

Opposition voices, including Sinn Féin TD John Brady, have called for tangible consequences for Israel under international law, arguing that the swift enactment of the Occupied Territories Bill is essential. Brady has also urged the Irish Government to cease the sale of Israeli war bonds through the Central Bank and to proceed with the Israeli Settlement Divestment Bill, which seeks to withdraw investment from Israeli settlements.

Aontú TD Paul Lawless has voiced concerns about Ireland's position in the global arena, advocating for the country to leverage its reputation for peace and neutrality in brokering a peace deal rather than remaining passive in the conflict.

In a related development, Labour leader Ivana Bacik has stressed the necessity for the Irish State to take more decisive action, including the prompt enactment of the Occupied Territories Bill. Speaking at the annual James Connolly commemoration at Arbour Hill cemetery, Bacik lamented the tragic loss of life in Gaza, particularly among children suffering from starvation due to Israel's denial of humanitarian aid. She characterized the situation as tantamount to genocide, stating, "I don't think that's too strong." Bacik urged that if the Taoiseach and Tánaiste are labeling Israel's actions as war crimes, it is imperative for the Irish State to step up and ensure that substantive measures are implemented to address the crisis.