All 16 Irish citizens detained following Israel’s interception of an aid flotilla have now been moved to a “detention facility” in southern Israel, according to the Tánaiste, reports Breaking News.
Simon Harris confirmed that Ireland’s ambassador to Israel is present at the facility and is offering “all possible and appropriate” support to the detainees.
The group was taken into custody after Israeli forces intercepted approximately 40 boats that were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla delivering aid to Gaza, reports Breaking News.
According to organisers, the flotilla was intended to deliver humanitarian assistance to Palestinians, challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza, and increase global awareness of the situation.
In a post on social media, Israel’s foreign ministry stated that the activists — which included Sinn Féin senator Chris Andrews and other European parliamentarians — were safe and had been transported to Israel to begin “procedures” for their deportation, reports Breaking News.
Following a meeting with senior officials at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr Harris issued a statement saying: “Over the past number of weeks, I have repeatedly stated that I understand that the peaceful efforts of those that were on board reflect an understandable desire by many people around the world to urgently address the humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza.
“I can confirm that, in the last 24 hours, all 16 of our citizens were transferred to a detention facility in southern Israel. In this situation, my clear priority is their safety and wellbeing. An embassy team, including our ambassador to Israel, is currently at the detention facility, and is providing all possible and appropriate consular assistance, including ensuring access to legal representation and facilitating medical treatment where necessary,” reports Breaking News.
The Department of Foreign Affairs believes that those in custody will be offered the choice to either leave the country immediately or face a legal hearing within the coming days.
Mr Harris added: “Dublin-based officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are also in close contact with family members who have requested our support. I understand that this is an exceptionally difficult time for them, and we will continue to update them as we receive more information,” reports Breaking News.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.
