Irish President’s Sister Detained by Israeli Forces in Aid Flotilla
An Irish aid flotilla, including Dr. Margaret Connolly, the sister of Irish President Catherine Connolly, was intercepted in international waters by Israeli forces. The Global Sumud Flotilla reported that the interception occurred about 70 nautical miles off Cyprus, with at least six Irish citizens among those detained.
Videos from Dr. Connolly and five others, recorded before their detention, were shared by the flotilla. In her video message, Dr. Connolly expressed pride in participating in the flotilla, which aimed to deliver aid and medical supplies to Gaza.
Karen Moynihan, the Irish lead for the Global Sumud Flotilla, condemned the detention of six Irish citizens as a “kidnapping.” She criticized the Irish government’s lack of response and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian mission intercepted by Israel.
The flotilla organizers denounced Israel’s actions as unlawful and expressed concerns for the safety of all participants, including the Irish citizens. Amnesty International Ireland called for international accountability in addressing the situation and urged the Irish government to take decisive action.
Political leaders like Mary Lou McDonald and Richard Boyd Barrett demanded the immediate release of the activists and called for Ireland to lead in confronting such violations of international law. The Department of Foreign Affairs stated that they are closely monitoring the situation and will provide consular assistance to affected Irish citizens.
The Israel Foreign Ministry labeled the flotilla a “provocation” and emphasized that no aid was onboard. They defended their actions by stating that Israel would uphold its naval blockade on Gaza.