Irish Government Urged to Pass Occupied Territories Bill Now

UPDATE: The Irish Government is facing mounting pressure to urgently pass the Occupied Territories Bill, following a damning report revealing that major EU companies are exacerbating humanitarian crises in Palestinian territories. Over 80 international civil society organizations, including Oxfam and Christian Aid, have called for immediate action against trade with illegal Israeli settlements.

The report, titled Stop Trade with Settlements, highlights how this trade is “directly contributing to the oppression, dispossession, and impoverishment” of Palestinians. Conor O’Neill, head of policy and advocacy at Christian Aid Ireland, stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “We have a crucial opportunity now to get this right and ensure that an emerging new EU standard is effective.”

The Occupied Territories Bill proposes a ban on imports from West Bank settlements deemed illegal under international law. However, the government is currently focusing on prohibiting only goods, which has sparked criticism from advocates who argue that services must also be included.

The report links major companies profiting from these illegal activities, including Spanish firm eDreams Odigeo and German travel company Tui, which offer accommodations in these settlements. Additionally, banks such as BNP Paribas, HSBC, and Barclays are accused of financing trade in the region through loans and support.

Jim Clarke, chief executive of Oxfam Ireland, condemned the situation, stating that trading with illegal settlements is “bankrolling atrocity and sustaining an economy of genocide.” He emphasized, “The Irish Government must hold its resolve against economic interests that seek to weaken its response.”

Clarke further urged that “if ever there was a time for human life and survival to outweigh short-term economic considerations, it is now.”

In a related development, Tánaiste Simon Harris is seeking clarity from the European Commission on potential sanctions against Israel regarding its actions in Gaza and the West Bank. Following Ursula von der Leyen’s announcement of a forthcoming package of measures, Harris is coordinating with other EU countries to push for immediate action through a letter to the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas.

As the situation evolves, the Irish Government faces an urgent decision that could shape its role in the international response to the ongoing crisis. The call to action from civil society groups is louder than ever, and the time for decisive legislative measures is critical.

Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.