16 Irish Citizens Detained in Israel After Gaza Aid Flotilla Interception

Sixteen Irish citizens participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) are now in detention in southern Israel, as confirmed by Ireland’s Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, on October 3, 2023. The individuals were aboard multiple GSF vessels that were intercepted by Israeli forces in recent days.

Following updates on the situation, Harris convened a meeting with senior officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. In a statement, he expressed understanding of the peaceful intentions of the flotilla participants, noting their desire to address the humanitarian needs of the people in Gaza. “In the last 24 hours, all 16 of our citizens were transferred to a detention facility in southern Israel,” Harris stated.

Official Response and Consular Assistance

Harris emphasized the safety and well-being of the detained citizens as his primary concern. An Embassy team, including the Irish Ambassador to Israel, is currently at the detention facility providing consular assistance. This includes facilitating access to legal representation and necessary medical treatment.

Officials in Dublin are also in close contact with the families of those detained, offering support during what Harris described as an “exceptionally difficult time.” He assured that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

There are indications that additional Irish citizens are participating in other flotillas heading to Gaza, prompting Harris to instruct his department to closely monitor those developments.

Background of the Global Sumud Flotilla

The Global Sumud Flotilla is described as the largest civilian maritime mission aimed at breaking the blockade on Gaza. Organized by a coalition of grassroots activists, seafarers, and medical professionals from over 40 countries, the flotilla positions itself as a “nonviolent humanitarian mission” responding to what it terms the “ongoing genocide and siege against the Palestinian people.” It aims to open a humanitarian corridor by sea.

Launched between August and September, the flotilla has drawn international attention. On September 16, Harris, along with the Foreign Ministers of 15 other countries, issued a statement expressing concern for the flotilla’s security. They called for restraint, urging all parties to respect international law and humanitarian principles. The statement warned that violations of international law would lead to accountability.

The GSF reported that as of October 1, a total of 42 vessels had been intercepted and over 450 individuals detained. Among those confirmed to be on board the intercepted vessels were the following Irish citizens: Tara O’Grady (Alma), Donna Marie Schwarz (Amsterdam), Catriona Graham (Aurora), Louise Heaney (Dir Yassine – Mali), Patrick Kelly (Fair Lady), Patrick O’Donovan (Fair Lady), Colm Peter Byrne (Hio), Anthony (Tadgh) Hickey (Meteque), Tara Rose Sheehy (Ohwayla), Mary Almai (Paola I), Caoimhe Triona Butterly (Shireen), Diarmuid Mac Dubhglais (Sirius), Thomas Doherty McCune (Sirius), Christopher Andrews (Spectre), Sarah Catherine Clancy (Spectre), and Cormac Kevin O’Daly (Yalara).

In response to the flotilla’s interception, pro-Palestinian demonstrators held protests, including a shutdown at Dublin Port, to express solidarity with those detained. Similar demonstrations occurred in other Irish cities, highlighting the ongoing concern over the situation.

As developments unfold, the Irish government continues to advocate for the welfare of its citizens in accordance with international law, emphasizing the importance of their rights and safety during this turbulent period.