Brazen and unlawful

Harris says citizens' welfare is clear priority

- BY NEIL LESLIE

THE TANAISTE and Justice Minister have condemned the Israeli government for “unlawfully attacking” a protest flotilla in international waters.

It comes as Sinn Fein said one of its senators was onboard a boat in the flotilla that was targeted by multiple drones.

The Dail heard yesterday that Senator Chris Andrews is on the Spectre boat that was “struck four times” on Tuesday night.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald told the Dail: “Last night, the Israelis attacked a peaceful flotilla that includes a member of the Oireachtas — our colleague Senator Chris Andrews.”

She added: “This flotilla is in imminent danger. There is, I think, over 20 Irish citizens on it.”

And Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris said he was “extremely concerned” by developments involving the flotilla.

He said: “The welfare and safety of people aboard that flotilla has to be a priority of the international community.

“My officials are in direct contact with a designated Government point of contact for the Global Movement To Gaza delegation of the GSF.

“Our clear priority is to ensure the welfare of our citizens.”

Mr Harris added: “What has happened is clearly not acceptable. It is clear what international law allows and does not allow, and it is clearly a breach of international law to have any activity that is targeting civilians or a humanitarian flotilla.”

He said he had discussed raising concerns with Tel Aviv during a direct engagement with the EU's High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas.

He said he also intends to raise the matter at a UN meeting relating to the region.