Ireland: Ireland has imposed a travel ban on hard-right Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, according to Irish Prime Minister Miche¡l Martin. The decision was confirmed as Martin participated in the EU-Western Balkans summit in Tivat, Montenegro.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, Irish Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan approved the entry ban. The Irish Prime Minister stated that the actions and statements of the two ministers reflect a desire to eliminate Palestinians from Palestine. Martin emphasized the need for further measures against these ministers at the European Union level, suggesting that the international community should take the issue into account. He mentioned that Ireland plans to bring this matter to the attention of other EU members, advocating for potential EU-wide sanctions, though acknowledging the challenge of achieving consensus within the bloc.
A spokesperson for the Justice Minister noted that the ban was enacted following government approval, outside of Cabinet, consistent with Ireland's policy of barring entry to individuals viewed as exacerbating the ongoing crisis in Gaza. This move aligns with actions taken by other countries, such as France, which also announced restrictions on the entry of Israeli officials. These measures come amid increasing international calls for coordinated EU sanctions.