16 Irish citizens detained by Israel on Gaza flotilla ‘on their journey home’

Sixteen Irish citizens detained by Israel during the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla have been released and “are on their journey home”, the Tanaiste has said.

Simon Harris said those detained would continue to be provided assistance.

They were held among approximately 450 people held after Israel intercepted 42 vessels taking part in the flotilla which was taking aid to Gaza.

Organisers say the flotilla was arranged to carry humanitarian aid for Palestinians, break Israel’s blockade of Gaza and raise awareness.

The detainees were taken to Kestiot Prison in Israel, with the country’s foreign ministry saying it offered voluntary deportation to all of the activists.

Some activists reported ill treatment during their detention while solicitors representing Irish detainees called on the Government to “condemn the unlawful arrests” and “reckless use of force against unarmed civilians”.

In a statement, Mr Harris said: “I can confirm that the Irish citizens detained in Israel have been released and are currently on their journey home.

“This welcome outcome was secured after a weekend of intensive efforts by officials from across my department, including the embassy team in Tel Aviv, working in conjunction with international partners.

“I know that this has been a difficult time for both the Irish citizens and their families, and I pay tribute to their strength throughout.

“Dublin-based officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade remain in close contact with family members who have requested our support, and will continue to update them.”

He added: “As we welcome our citizens home, Ireland will continue to call for all efforts to reach an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas, and unhindered humanitarian access to the people of Gaza at scale.”

A spokesperson representing the Irish participants said 15 of them will travel home on three separate flights from Athens to Dublin on Monday and Tuesday.

A 16th person holds a US passport and is subject to a separate deportation process.

Niamh Mac Namara, co-ordinator with Global Movement to Gaza Eire, said: “Our Government’s inaction over the genocide and ethic cleansing in Palestine has directly led to this situation, ordinary Irish citizens forced to risk their lives because leaders refused to act.

“What happened was completely illegal under international law and should never have been allowed.

“If Ireland had imposed sanctions on the genocidal state of Israel and upheld human rights, this mission would never have been necessary.

“We demand immediate political action to protect those still sailing to Gaza and to end our complicity in this genocide.”

Several other Irish citizens are participating in other flotillas en route to Gaza.