RAMALLAH, May 6, 2025 (WAFA) – Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris said he is "deeply appalled and disgusted by Israel's continued blocking of humanitarian aid into Gaza."

In a speech at the Ireland Global Summit 2025, he added that "the conflict in the Middle East is a priority for him and the Irish government."

He pointed to reports from the World Food Program warning that food supplies inside the Strip are running out and that famine is a real threat to many residents of Gaza.

He continued, "Children in Gaza are dying of hunger as we speak, and we cannot stand idly by and allow this to happen."

He reiterated his call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of widespread humanitarian access throughout Gaza.

He noted that "Ireland and its EU partners have repeatedly urged Israel to comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law."

He expressed concern over reports that Israel is planning to expand its military operations in Gaza, calling on Tel Aviv to exercise "restraint."

He stressed the importance of allowing humanitarian organizations, including UNRWA, to operate at full capacity, emphasizing the need to address the challenges facing the UN agency, which threaten the integrity of the international system.

In a related context, he noted that Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank is increasing, resulting in the displacement of at least 40,000 people over the past two decades.

He affirmed his country's commitment to the "two-state solution" as the only way to achieve lasting peace and security for Israel, Palestine, and the wider region.

Y.S