Taoiseach statement on the decision of the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants related to the conflict in Gaza

The decision of the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as for Hamas leader Mohammed Deif, is an extremely significant step.

The court points to reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant each bear criminal responsibility for crimes perpetrated in the war in Gaza, including the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare, and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts.

In the case of the leadership of Hamas, the court points to reasonable grounds that Mr Deif, along with Mr Ismail Haniyeh and Mr Yahya Sinwar, agreed to carry out the attacks of 7 October and that Mr Deif is responsible for crimes against humanity of murder; extermination; torture; and rape and other form of sexual violence; as well as the war crimes of murder, cruel treatment, torture; taking hostages; outrages upon personal dignity; and rape and other forms of sexual violence.

These charges could not be more serious.

The Government has long expressed its profound concern about the conduct of the war in Gaza and has stated clearly its belief that the rules of international law and international humanitarian law have not been upheld.

We have insisted that international law must apply in all circumstances, at all times, and in all places, and that those responsible for breaches, those who commit war crimes and crimes against humanity, must be held fully to account.

Ireland respects the role of the International Criminal Court. Anyone in a position to assist it in carrying out its vital work must now do so with urgency.

There can be no argument against the need for an immediate ceasefire, release of all hostages and unhindered access for humanitarian aid in Gaza.

The situation in Gaza could not be more desperate, is an affront to humanity and cannot be allowed to continue a moment longer.