National: Irish ambassador to Israel expresses 'surprise' over criticism of social media post

THE IRISH ambassador to Israel has been "surprised" on the part of the Irish Government that these expressions of evident relief at Emily’s release had been publicly criticised by the Israeli Government.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs stated that Sonya McGuiness presented the Foreign Ministry with the full statements issued by the Taoiseach and Tánaiste following the release from captivity late on Saturday night, November 25, of Irish-Israeli citizen, Emily Hand.

The statement continued with "These statements referenced the traumatic experience endured by Emily and her family, reiterated thanks to international partners who had facilitated her freeing from captivity and called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

In this context, Ambassador McGuinness expressed surprise on the part of the Irish Government that these expressions of evident relief at Emily’s release had been publicly criticised by the Israeli Government.

The Ambassador further reiterated today Ireland’s unequivocal position that all hostages held by Hamas should be immediately and unconditionally released; the importance of fully respecting International Humanitarian Law and getting desperately-needed humanitarian supplies to civilians in Gaza; that the current truce should become a sustainable humanitarian ceasefire; and that the international community must focus on a pathway to deliver a two-state solution which can allow the people of Israel and Palestine to live in peace and security as neighbours.