Irish PM Calls for EU Review of Israel Ties After Flotilla Detentions

(MENAFN) Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin has urged the European Union to hold a formal debate on Israel’s treatment of EU citizens detained during the interception of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla, according to reports.

In a letter addressed to European Council President António Costa, Martin requested that the issue be placed on the agenda of the upcoming EU summit. He also suggested that EU leaders consider the possibility of suspending all or part of the EU–Israel Association Agreement in response to what he described as the “illegal detention” of EU citizens in international waters.

The request follows reports that dozens of activists, including Irish nationals, were detained during the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian maritime convoy attempting to reach Gaza with humanitarian supplies.

According to accounts cited in reports, footage circulated online showing detained participants restrained after the interception, which has sparked criticism from some European officials and renewed calls for political action at the EU level.

Martin described the behavior of Israeli officials involved in the incident as “unacceptable” and argued that the treatment of activists reflects a broader pattern of disregard for international norms, according to his statements.

He also referenced the humanitarian situation in Gaza, stating that living conditions remain severe despite previous ceasefire efforts, and reiterated concerns about the impact of continued conflict on civilians.

The Irish leader further criticized ongoing settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, arguing that it undermines prospects for a viable two-state solution.

EU officials are now expected to consider whether the issue will be formally included in discussions at the next summit, as internal divisions persist over how the bloc should respond to the incident and broader regional developments.

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