Gilmore 'Should Defend Gaza Ship's Jailed'

The Irish Foreign Affairs Minister is facing increased pressure from left wing lobbyists and independent TDs to oppose the jailing of 14 Irish citizens, who were aboard a boat carrying supplies to the Gaza region.

Some five TDs accused Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore of double standards over the detention of the 14 Irish activists, and called for the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland, Boaz Modai, to be expelled over their arrest at sea.

The Irish activists are being held in Givon prison awaiting deportation after being detained on board the MV Saoirse in international waters by Isreali forces.

The TDs, Independent Seamus Healy, Socialists Joe Higgins and Clare Daly, and People Before Profit's Richard Boyd Barrett and Joan Collins, said the Tanaiste must demand the activists' release.

Meanwhile, a statement released this morning by the Irish Anti War Movement (IAWM) also called on the Irish Government, particularly Eamon Gilmore, to stand up to "this outrageous attack on Irish citizens by Israel and its open disregard of international law".

Jim Roche, of the IAWM said: "I am truly appalled at this outrageous violent attack on these committed and peaceful activists. It is now clear from the descriptions emerging from released journalists that the assault by the Israeli Navy was really quite violent and dangerous and could have resulted in the MV Saoirse sinking.

"It also occurred in international waters making it even more outrageous. What does Israel need to do to Irish Citizens before our Government, and the Irish media, will sit up and take notice? It is truly shocking what has happened and the way these 14 people are being treated."

Mr Roche said he was calling on the Irish Government to demand the immediate release of all 14 passengers and to censure Israel in some form.

(DW)