Ireland urges states to remain focused on deteriorating situation in West Bank

Ireland on Tuesday called on countries to keep their focus on the recent escalations in the West Bank, Anadolu Agency reports.

Speaking at the high-level segment of the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Neale Richmond, the minister of state for international development and diaspora, said: “We must remain focused on the deteriorating situation in the West Bank.”

Richmond’s remarks came as Israel expelled residents from three refugee camps in the occupied West Bank – Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams – as part of a month-long military operation. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced that the camps were now “empty” and would be occupied by Israeli forces for the coming year.

Addressing the broader Israel-Gaza conflict, he said: “We need to see the ceasefire agreement fully implemented in all its phases, including the release of all hostages. There must also be continuing entry of humanitarian aid at scale, the provision of basic services and a framework for the return of those displaced from their homes within Gaza.”

He stressed that only a two-state solution can bring lasting peace to both Israelis and Palestinians.

On Ukraine, Richmond denounced Russia’s “brutal, illegal war of aggression” and reiterated Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. He called for accountability for human rights violations.

The minister also highlighted human rights concerns in Sudan, Yemen, and Afghanistan.

Richmond concluded by announcing Ireland’s bid for a seat on the Human Rights Council for 2027-2029, pledging to champion accountability, multilateralism, and human rights for all.

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