DUBLIN / PNN/ Monjed Jadou
Ireland on Friday banned Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from entering its territory, according to an official statement.
Ireland’s Justice Ministry said Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan had instructed immigration authorities to deny entry to the two ministers if they attempt to enter the country.
Prime Minister Micheál Martin told a European Union conference that the actions and statements of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich indicate “a desire to eliminate Palestinians,” calling for further measures against them by the bloc.
“This is another issue the international community must take into account, and we will work to advance it in cooperation with other parties,” Martin said.
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence Minister Helen McEntee said she was “shocked” by footage shared by Ben-Gvir showing activists being detained at Ashdod port, including Irish citizens.
She said the detainees had been held “illegally” in international waters and were not being treated in a manner consistent with human dignity. McEntee said Ireland’s ambassador in Tel Aviv had been tasked with following up on the case, demanding the immediate release of all activists and ensuring the safety of Irish nationals.
The decision comes as the European Union considers possible restrictive measures against Israeli officials over alleged mistreatment of foreign activists aboard what has been referred to as the “Freedom Flotilla,” according to a draft EU document cited by Politico.
Under the draft, EU member state ambassadors are expected to discuss proposals to impose sanctions on Israeli ministers over statements and actions described as incitement and violations of human rights.
Several member states have called for examining “restrictive measures” against Israeli ministers. However, any sanctions would require unanimous approval from all 27 EU countries, with reports indicating that some states, including Czech Republic, have expressed opposition to such a move.
