The key facts

  • Ireland's Foreign Minister Helen McEntee called Israel's blocking of aid 'reprehensible and unacceptable'
  • According to the UN, floods affected more than 26,000 households, thousands of shelters damaged or destroyed, with deaths including children
  • Ireland intends to raise the issue at the European Political Community meeting in Dublin and at the EU Foreign Affairs Council

Statement amid floods in Gaza

Ireland's Foreign Minister Helen McEntee on Monday expressed 'deep concern' over reports of devastating floods in Gaza that occurred over the weekend. According to her, heavy rains are destroying Palestinians' temporary shelters and threatening the lives of people who have already endured 'unimaginable suffering' in recent years. The statement was published by the Anadolu agency.

UN data and demand to Israel

Citing UN reports, McEntee said the floods affected more than 26,000 households, thousands of shelters have been damaged or destroyed, and the death toll includes young children. She called on Israel to 'stop the deliberate blocking of aid, food and relief supplies,' describing such actions as 'reprehensible and unacceptable,' and stressed that aid must reach those in need without delay. In her assessment, tents and temporary structures are not a long-term solution: transitional structures with more durable shelter are urgently needed.

Next steps at the European level

McEntee pledged that Ireland will continue working with European partners to ensure the people of Gaza receive the necessary humanitarian aid, and said she intends to raise the situation with EU counterparts at this week's upcoming European Political Community meeting in Dublin, as well as at the Foreign Affairs Council early next week. She also reaffirmed that Ireland's commitment to supporting the people of Gaza remains 'unwavering.'