Dublin, 7 October 2025 — On the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks on Israel, Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris issued solemn statements condemning the violence, expressing solidarity with victims, and urging renewed efforts to end the ongoing conflict.
Remembering Victims and Hostages
Both leaders recalled the heinous attacks by Hamas and allied groups, which left hundreds dead and many more injured. The Taoiseach extended his thoughts to the hostages still held in Gaza, demanding their immediate and unconditional release. He also paid tribute to those who lost loved ones, including the family of Kim Damti, an Irish-Israeli citizen killed in the attacks.
The Tánaiste echoed these sentiments, highlighting the anguish of families such as that of Emily Hand, abducted during the assault. He described the pain of survivors and their communities as “unimaginable,” while reiterating Ireland’s unequivocal condemnation of Hamas.
Acknowledging Israeli and Palestinian Suffering
Tánaiste Harris emphasized the enduring trauma inflicted on Israeli society, as well as the rise in antisemitism globally, warning that such hatred “must never be minimised.” At the same time, he underscored the devastating toll of the war on Palestinians, citing figures of over 66,000 killed, 168,000 injured, and hundreds of thousands displaced in Gaza. He described the destruction of homes, widespread hunger, and humanitarian collapse as “inconceivable loss.”
The Taoiseach reinforced this dual message, declaring: “This war needs to end. The appalling slaughter and famine in Gaza needs to end.”
Ireland’s Call for Peace
Both leaders urged the international community to seize what they described as a window of opportunity to halt the violence, secure the release of hostages, and deliver humanitarian aid at scale. They stressed that only a political resolution can bring lasting peace to Israelis and Palestinians.
“Ireland urges all who can make this a reality to act now,” the Tánaiste said, calling for a comprehensive peace deal to break the cycle of violence that has persisted for decades.
Outlook
As Ireland marked the anniversary, its leaders sought to balance solidarity with Israeli victims and recognition of Palestinian suffering, framing the moment as a reminder of the urgent need for diplomacy. Their joint message was clear: the conflict’s human cost is intolerable, and the pursuit of peace is the only path forward.
Sources: Department of the Taoiseach; Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Simon Harris and Micheál Martin speaking in Dáil Eireann picture from Houses of the Oireachtas
