Dublin, 2 October 2025 — Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris has convened senior officials to assess the evolving situation following the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla by Israeli naval forces overnight. Several Irish citizens are confirmed to be among those detained.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said its overriding concern remains the welfare of those on board, with Ireland’s Embassy in Tel Aviv liaising directly with local authorities to provide consular assistance. Passengers are expected to be transferred to an Israeli port for processing.
In a statement, the Tánaiste reiterated that the flotilla was a peaceful mission aimed at highlighting the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, stressing that Ireland expects international law to be fully respected and that all detainees be treated in strict accordance with it.
Harris also renewed his broader call for urgent progress on peace efforts, including an end to the killings in Gaza, the alleviation of famine conditions, and the release of hostages.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, comprising dozens of vessels and hundreds of activists, had been attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza in defiance of Israel’s blockade. Its interception has drawn international criticism and heightened diplomatic tensions, with governments and rights groups urging restraint and respect for humanitarian principles.
