Tánaiste confirms Irish citizens released from detention in Egypt

Tánaiste and foreign affairs minister Simon Harris has confirmed several Irish citizens who were detained on a march through Egypt to Gaza have been released.

Mr Harris also expressed deep concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East after Iran bombarded Israel with hundreds of missiles overnight in retaliation for Israeli strikes on its nuclear bases.

Mr Harris held calls with Ireland’s ambassadors to Israel, Iran and Egypt on Saturday morning.

He said he had been briefed on developments and all embassy staff are “safe and well”.

Diplomacy

The Tánaiste called for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy, adding: “This is a dangerous moment for the Middle East. I am deeply concerned about the continuing exchange of air attacks between Israel and Iran.” 

He also spoke with a politician who has been released from detention in Egypt.

People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Paul Murphy had been detained on Friday while attempting to march to the Rafah crossing into Gaza as part of a large demonstration and effort to get aid into the region.

The opposition politician said his phone and passport were confiscated before he and others were put on a bus to Cairo airport, where they believed they would be deported.

Mr Murphy and party representatives urged Mr Harris and the Department of Foreign Affairs to intervene.

All Irish people who were detained have since been released, but some have not had their phones returned.

Statement

In a statement on Saturday, Mr Murphy said: “We were finally released late last night at airport. Police still have our phones.

“We are back in Cairo and meeting shortly to decide next steps. We’re focused on Israel’s genocide and starvation of Gaza.

“Thanks for your support. Free Palestine.” 

Mr Harris said: “I am pleased that following the work of our embassy staff, all Irish people who were detained yesterday in Rafah have been released and have had their passports returned.

“I spoke directly to Deputy Murphy to confirm he and other Irish people have been released from detention, had their passports returned and were receiving consular assistance. The wellbeing and safety of all Irish citizens abroad is always of concern to me and to my department.

“I am aware some Irish citizens have not had their phones returned by the authorities and I have asked our embassy to pursue this.” 

Mr Murphy’s partner, councillor Jess Spear, expressed “relief” that the group had been released from detention.

“However, they still want to reach Rafah to try and get humanitarian aid into Gaza. That has been the sole purpose of being in Egypt," she said.

“Paul has appealed to Tánaiste Simon Harris to put pressure on the Egyptian authorities to let the marchers reach Rafah. The situation of the people of Gaza worsens by the day as they suffer starvation imposed by Israel.

“We need to get humanitarian aid to them as quickly as possible.” 

Embassies

Mr Harris said embassies remain in close contact with members of the Irish community to offer assistance, adding that his department is working closely with European counterparts.

“My department continues to advise against all travel to Iran and Israel for Irish citizens.

“Irish citizens in the region are advised to be vigilant and to follow the advice of local authorities, including any orders to shelter in place.”