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Israeli attack on flotilla shows reckless disregard for international law - Dearey


Green Party Foreign Affairs spokesperson Senator Mark Dearey has expressed grave concerns regarding the safety of three Irish citizens on board the Free Gaza ship Challenger 1, part of the flotilla attacked in International waters by the Israeli navy earlier today.
Posted on: 05/31/2010
Category: News
Posted by: admin

"Our lack of contact with Fiachra O'Luain, Dr Fintan Lane and Shane Dillon is extremely worrying. John Gormley has condemned the Israeli attack. The fact that the flotilla was boarded in International waters, in contravention of part VII of the UN convention on Oceans and the Laws of the Sea, demonstrates a reckless disregard by Israel for International law and opinion.

I have written to the Israeli ambassador this morning seeking assurances that Challanger 1 and its crew are safe and well. I have had indirect contact with the crew of the Rachel Corrie the Irish cargo vessel which left from Malta for Gaza on Saturday. It is their intention, I understand, to proceed with their mission and again it is imperative that Israel gives cast iron guarantees regarding their safe passage. I have inspected the cargo on the quay side in Dundalk and am completely satisfied that it is humanitarian aid only."

In conclusion, we welcome Minister Martins meeting with the Israeli ambassador this afternoon and trust that he will use every means available to censure the Israeli attack and to get guarantees regarding the flotilla's future safety.