Ireland to keep 'open mind' on sending peacekeepers to Gaza - Tánaiste
Ottoline Spearman
The Tánaiste has said that Ireland will keep an "open mind" about sending peacekeepers to Gaza.
Speaking on Newstalk, Tánaiste Simon Harris said: "Being honest, I think it's too premature to determine that answer at the moment. The depth of conflict in the Middle East is so real.
"We've only had a ceasefire for a matter of days. We still have a very, very long way to go, and maybe a lack of clarity on next steps around implementation. But Ireland always keeps an open mind on these issues, and we will in the time ahead."
Ireland pledged €6 million in humanitarian aid for people in Gaza on Tuesday, as UN and humanitarian agencies prepare to ramp up aid supplies following the ceasefire.
This contribution brings Ireland’s support for the people of Palestine since October 2023 to more than €89 million. Over €35 million was donated in 2025.
All 20 remaining living hostages held in Gaza have been released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. US President Donald Trump met with world leaders in Egypt yesterday to finalise the deal.
Recently, Barry Andrews, Member of the European Parliament for the Dublin constituency and Fianna Fáil party member, said that the Defence forces should be prepared to send peacekeepers, with Palestinian and UN backing.
"The Irish Defence Forces have a proud record of peacekeeping around the world and can play an important part in helping to stabilize Gaza," he said.
"However, any such temporary force must be part of a credible peace process based on international law, with accountability for war crimes and a pathway to a two-state solution with security for both states."
