Taoiseach says Israel “doesn’t seem to be interested” in peace before UN speech

Taoiseach Micheál Martin told reporters in New York that Israel “doesn’t seem to be interested” in peace ahead of his national address to the United Nations General Assembly.

Martin said a “fundamental shift” in Israeli policy toward the Palestinians and a two‑state solution is required, noting that Europe remains divided but a summit of France, Canada, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom showed a “critical mass of countries coming together”, leaving Israel increasingly isolated.

The Taoiseach urged those with influence over Israel, particularly the United States administration and President Donald Trump, to act. He praised protests supporting Palestinian self‑determination and the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Martin described the situation in Palestine as “depressing and devastating”, while also acknowledging Israel’s hurt after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. He warned that expecting a change in policy simply because Israeli elections are due at the end of October is unrealistic.

He accused Israeli security forces of using “excessive, disproportionate, and shocking tactics” in the West Bank, calling the actions “a form of ethnic cleansing”. Martin said the developments have significant regional impacts.

Martin’s UN address, scheduled for 1 am Irish time (8 pm local), will stress global uncertainty, the need to strengthen the multilateral system, and will reference conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East and Sudan.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Eyden Lascombes dhotel / Pexels.