Harris convening ‘senior officials’ following flotilla interception

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A flotilla sailing towards Gaza must be treated “in strict accordance” with international law, the Department of Foreign Affairs has said

The Global Sumud Flotilla, which was composed of 43 boats and 500 activists at the height of its strength, is carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Several Irish citizens were on board the vessels which the Israeli navy intercepted on the way to the Palestinian territory on Wednesday night.

Organisers said several vessels were not intercepted in the initial response and had proceeded towards Gaza.

Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews was among those detained after the boat he was on was boarded.

Mr Andrews had been on board a boat called the Spectre which was intercepted by Israeli forces off the coast of Egypt.

Several activists posted videos on social media in which they said Israeli naval vessels were approaching the flotilla and ordering them to turn their engines off.

Tánaiste Simon Harris is due to speak with Ireland’s Ambassador to Israel about the matter on Thursday.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said he would convene a meeting of senior officials this morning to discuss the “evolving situation with Global Sumud Flotilla overnight”.

It said the overriding concern remains the welfare of those on board, including Irish citizens.

It said the latest understanding is that passengers will be transferred to an Israeli port for processing and that Ireland’s Embassy on the ground will liaise with local authorities and provide consular assistance.

“This is a peaceful mission to shine a light on a horrific humanitarian catastrophe. Ireland expects international law to be upheld and all those on board the flotilla to be treated in strict accordance with it.”

Mr Harris has also reiterated his broader call for progress on the peace efforts to stop the killings in Gaza, stop the famine and release the hostages.