LUXEMBOURG, Oct. 20, 2025 — Ireland’s Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, has told his EU counterparts that the Union must play a “vital role” in delivering humanitarian relief to Gaza while maintaining pressure on Russia through additional sanctions.
Speaking ahead of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg, Harris described the gathering as taking place at a “critical moment” for both Ukraine and European security. He condemned Russia’s continued missile strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, stressing Ireland’s “steadfast solidarity” with Kyiv and support for its EU accession bid.
Gaza and the Middle East
Turning to the Middle East, Harris welcomed the recent ceasefire and hostage release agreement, which saw 20 Israeli hostages freed after two years in captivity. He called the development “a moment of hope” but emphasised that the priority must now be to preserve the ceasefire and scale up humanitarian aid.
“I will be emphasising the important role that the EU can play in this regard,” Harris said, noting that Ireland has pledged an additional €6 million in humanitarian funding for Gaza to provide food, medical care, and essential services.
Wider Agenda
The meeting also addressed the EU’s relations with the Indo-Pacific, as well as developments in Moldova, Georgia, and Sudan. On Sudan, Harris reiterated Ireland’s concern over the ongoing conflict, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a move toward an inclusive political settlement. He underlined the need for unhindered humanitarian access to reach civilians caught in the fighting.
Strategic Context
The Luxembourg meeting comes as the EU seeks to balance its response to multiple crises — from Russia’s war in Ukraine to instability in the Middle East and Africa — while reinforcing its global role. Harris framed Ireland’s position as one of principled solidarity, combining humanitarian commitments with support for stronger EU action on sanctions and diplomacy.
Summary: At the EU Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Luxembourg, Tánaiste Simon Harris pressed for expanded EU humanitarian aid to Gaza, endorsed further sanctions on Russia, and reaffirmed Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s EU membership bid, while also highlighting concerns over Sudan and other regional challenges.
Sources: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Ireland); RTÉ News RTÉ Ireland.
