Taoiseach Micheal Martin has stated that the video depicting Israeli authorities' handling of flotilla protesters has 'accelerated' the prevailing sentiment within the European Union for taking measures against Israel. Speaking after a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, Martin highlighted the widespread anger across EU member states at the footage, which he described as having 'shocked the world'.
Meeting with Macron
Following discussions with President Macron, Martin noted that Macron 'shared my concerns with the behaviour of Israel'. The video, which circulated widely on social media, shows Israel's national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir walking among detainees and advocating for their prolonged imprisonment. The footage also depicts individuals kneeling in tightly packed groups with their hands bound behind their backs.
Condemnation Across EU
The video and subsequent detention of flotilla participants have drawn condemnation from senior Irish government officials and across the European Union. Martin emphasized that the treatment of those on the flotilla represents 'egregious behaviour' and 'appalling and disgusting conduct'. He noted that the abduction occurred in international waters and the treatment in captivity was unacceptable.
Martin further criticized the failure to implement phase one of the peace agreement, which would facilitate significant humanitarian aid into Gaza. He also pointed to ongoing violence, displacement of Palestinians in the West Bank, and reckless behaviour in Lebanon involving uniformed troops as additional factors that have angered many European countries.
Shifting Mood in Europe
When asked if the video had altered the EU's stance towards Israel, Martin responded affirmatively: 'I think it has accelerated the momentum, and I think it's created a lot of anger.' He noted that individual prime ministers had independently expressed outrage over the video concerning their own citizens, indicating a clear change in mood. Martin also mentioned receiving 'positive feedback' from his correspondence with European Council president Antonio Costa, confirming that the matter will be on the agenda for the next council meeting.
Proposed Import Ban
Regarding the Irish government's proposed ban on importing goods from Israel, Martin expressed scepticism about a ban on services, stating it was not 'implementable or viable' and that legal advice strongly supported this view. He added, 'Legally, it's not within our capacity to do it.'
