Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, expressed deep concern over escalating Israeli violence in the occupied Palestinian territories, including house demolitions and deadly strikes on Gaza.

“I deeply regret the loss of life in Gaza today. The killing of civilians, including children, is never acceptable”, said the Minister in a statement. “These acts risk escalating the situation and leading to further violence. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased, and all of those whose lives have been impacted.” I

Martin called on the parties to deescalate and refrain from provocative acts.

“This violence must end”, he said. “The deteriorating security situation highlights once again the need to restore a political horizon and a credible peace process.”

Martin also condemned the demolition on 7 May by Israeli authorities of an EU funded school in the occupied West Bank, saying such acts negatively impact essential education for Palestinian children.

Martin urged Israel not to proceed with demolitions and to cease all settlement activities, saying that Ireland is part of a group of EU Member States that are pursuing compensation for demolished humanitarian structures.