Latest news with #IrishDepartmentofForeignAffairs
See - Sada Elbalad
04-07-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Ireland Pledges €4 Million to Support Education and Public Services in Palestine
Taarek Refaat In a significant move to bolster support for Palestinian communities amidst ongoing challenges, the Irish government has announced a new aid package worth €4 million aimed at supporting children's education and public services in Palestine. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that €3 million of the total funding will be directed toward educational initiatives, specifically to support the schooling of children in Palestine. In addition, €700,000 will be allocated to human rights organizations, and €300,000 will be used to assist public services and families in need. In a statement released on Friday, Simon Harris, Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the critical role of education in Ireland's longstanding partnership with Palestine. He highlighted that the funding would also support the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which is providing remote education to around 300,000 children in Gaza, where schools have faced severe disruptions due to the ongoing conflict. "The provision of education remains a cornerstone of our commitment to Palestine, and we continue to support UNRWA's vital work in ensuring that Palestinian children receive an education despite the challenging circumstances they face," Harris said. The announcement of this aid comes at a time of heightened international focus on the situation in Palestine, as diplomatic efforts intensify to address the ongoing conflict. Harris also remarked that the coming days represent a "critical opportunity" to achieve a ceasefire and end the ongoing violence. He called on all parties to make every effort to reach a peace agreement that would halt the suffering and bring an end to the war. This move by Ireland underscores the country's commitment to providing humanitarian assistance and supporting key sectors such as education and human rights in regions affected by conflict. Ireland has been a consistent advocate for Palestinian rights on the international stage and continues to contribute to peacebuilding efforts in the region. read more CBE: Deposits in Local Currency Hit EGP 5.25 Trillion Morocco Plans to Spend $1 Billion to Mitigate Drought Effect Gov't Approves Final Version of State Ownership Policy Document Egypt's Economy Expected to Grow 5% by the end of 2022/23- Minister Qatar Agrees to Supply Germany with LNG for 15 Years Business Oil Prices Descend amid Anticipation of Additional US Strategic Petroleum Reserves Business Suez Canal Records $704 Million, Historically Highest Monthly Revenue Business Egypt's Stock Exchange Earns EGP 4.9 Billion on Tuesday Business Wheat delivery season commences on April 15 News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean
The Herald Scotland
13-06-2025
- Politics
- The Herald Scotland
Phone and passport confiscated in Egypt from Irish politician marching to Gaza
A party spokesman said he and others have been forced onto buses and it is believed they are being taken to Cairo for deportation. Mr Murphy flew to Cairo on Thursday and set off towards Gaza on Friday. Prior to his phone being taken, he said in a social media post: 'We have had our passports confiscated and are being detained. 'It seems Egyptian authorities have decided to crack down on the #GreatMarchToGaza.' My bus and group of marchers has been stopped by the Egyptian authorities and our passports taken. They are telling us to get on a bus, but it is not clear where they will take us. We fear they intend to report us to stop us from marching to Gaza. — Paul Murphy 🇵🇸 (@paulmurphy_TD) June 13, 2025 Mr Murphy said his passport had been confiscated by the Egyptian army, along with the passports of other people in the group who were stopped. He said those being detained were being asked to board a bus and he believed they were going to be deported. He added: 'We are refusing to board the deportation bus.' Mr Murphy told the PA news agency that several other Irish citizens were among those who have been stopped. In a video, he said: 'It's looking worrying that the Egyptian authorities are going to act to prevent our peaceful march to Gaza, to demand that Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid, of food, of water, of medical supplies, is ended. 'I'm just asking people to redouble their efforts, to get on to your own Government, in Ireland's case get on to (Foreign Affairs Minister) Simon Harris, your local TD, ask them to pressurise the Egyptian regime to allow us to engage in our peaceful march.' He added: 'The world has watched a horrific genocide for the past 20 months. Since March, a total attempt of starvation. 'And that this a peaceful march to demand that it be ended and demand that western governments stop their complicity.' Mr Murphy also posted a livestream video on X in which Egyptian authorities could be seen forcibly dragging some of the participants away from a sit-down protest. The livestream abruptly ended after his phone was taken, a People Before Profit spokesman said, adding that the party is no longer able to contact him. A post by an administrator on his X account says: 'We urgently need Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris to intervene, demand he is freed, his passport and phone returned and the protesters are allowed to peacefully march to Gaza.' People Before Profit national secretary Matt Collins said: 'The Irish government must contact the Egyptian authorities to demand the release of Paul and the others who have been detained. 'They are travelling to join a peaceful march to demand that humanitarian aid is delivered to starving people in Gaza. There is no reason for them to be detained or deported. 'We also call on the public to contact the Egyptian embassy to demand that people on the Global March to Gaza are allowed to travel unhindered'. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs said it was 'closely monitoring the situation' along with its embassy in Egypt. 'Embassy officials are engaging with the relevant local authorities and are in contact with EU and other partners regarding the situation. 'The department is in contact with a number of citizens and is providing advice and guidance. 'As set out in our travel advice, the vicinity of the Rafah border crossing is particularly dangerous at the moment and the border crossing is currently closed.'
See - Sada Elbalad
28-05-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Ireland to Ban Imports from Israeli Settlements
Israa Farhan Ireland is set to become the first European Union member state to ban the import of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. This move marks a significant and symbolic stand in international trade and human rights policy. The Irish government has approved draft legislation to ban trade in products originating from settlements that are widely regarded by the international community as illegal under international law. A representative from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed the government's decision to proceed with the legislation. The law is designed to prevent the import of goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, which Ireland views as a legal obligation based on international law. The bill is now set to be debated and voted on in the Irish Parliament. While the economic impact is expected to be minimal—total trade between Ireland and the occupied territories was valued at under €1 million between 2020 and 2024—the decision carries significant political and diplomatic weight. The proposed ban targets physical goods, such as fruit, vegetables, and timber, that are produced in Israeli settlements. The legislation will not affect services like tourism or technology. This decision follows an advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in July 2024, which reaffirmed the view that Israeli settlements in the occupied territories are illegal under international law. Ireland has chosen to align its policy with this interpretation, reaffirming its commitment to upholding international legal standards. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris expressed hope that Ireland's position will inspire other European nations to follow suit. By becoming the first Western country to adopt such legislation, Ireland is positioning itself as a leader in promoting legal and moral accountability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The proposed law will be reviewed by a parliamentary committee in June, with a final vote expected in the autumn. If passed, Ireland will become the first EU country to formally restrict trade with Israeli settlements on legal and ethical grounds. This announcement comes after Ireland, Spain, and Norway officially recognised the State of Palestine in May 2024, with Slovenia joining shortly after. These moves prompted retaliatory actions from Israel, further complicating EU-Israel relations. At the same time, French President Emmanuel Macron has indicated that France may soon recognise Palestine as well. Ireland's decision follows a broader trend of increasing scrutiny of EU-Israel relations. The European Union is currently reviewing its 1995 Association Agreement with Israel, which governs trade and diplomatic relations between the two entities. The review comes amid growing concerns about Israel's settlement policies and a desire to hold Israel accountable for its actions in the occupied territories. Conor O'Neill, a representative from Christian Aid Ireland, welcomed the legislation, calling it the first meaningful trade action within the EU against illegal settlement products. He described it as a positive step that is much needed in the ongoing push for justice in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The United Nations estimates that about 500,000 Israeli settlers live illegally in the West Bank, alongside around three million Palestinians. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967, and the expansion of settlements continues to be one of the most contentious issues in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the economic impact of Ireland's decision may be limited, its symbolic significance is far-reaching. The move signals growing frustration within parts of Europe over the lack of progress in reaching a two-state solution. It could pave the way for other EU nations to consider similar actions against Israel's settlement expansion and bolster international efforts to support Palestinian statehood. As global pressure on Israel increases, Ireland's legislative action could set an important precedent, influencing EU foreign and trade policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the years to come. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Irish Post
24-05-2025
- Irish Post
Teen accused of killing Irish chef to be tried as juvenile
A US judge has ruled that the teenager accused of the fatal shooting of Irish chef Shaun Brady in Kansas City, Missouri, will be tried as a juvenile—a decision that has sparked protests from the extensive Irish community in Missouri. Shaun Brady, originally from Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, was shot and killed on August 28, 2024, while at his bar and restaurant in the city's Brookside area, a district known for its nightlife and restaurants. Jackson County Courthouse The 44-year-old had emigrated to the United States a number of years ago and was well-regarded in the Kansas City hospitality scene. He was known as a friendly and caring host at Brady & Fox, the restaurant and bar he co-owned in the Brookside district of the city. He is survived by his wife, Kate, and their two children, Seamus and Mary. The suspect, identified as K.H. and can't be named as he is a juvenile, was 15 at the time of the alleged offence. Prosecutors had sought to have the teenager tried as an adult, citing the seriousness of the charges. However, during a recent hearing in Jackson County, a judge determined that the case would remain in the juvenile court system. The decision means the accused cannot face adult penalties, such as a life sentence without parole. If convicted, the sentence is likely to focus more on rehabilitation than punishment, with the possibility of release by the age of 21. Brady's death sent shockwaves through both the Irish diaspora in the US and his home community in Ireland. Tributes poured in at the time from friends, colleagues, and former classmates in Nenagh, where he had grown up. His funeral, held in Kansas City, was attended by hundreds, including Irish nationals living in the Midwest. The Brady family has not made a public statement in response to the judge's ruling. However, friends of the family have expressed disappointment, saying they believe justice is best served through an adult trial. The legal proceedings are expected to continue in the juvenile court over the coming months. Because of the accused's status as a minor, many aspects of the case will now be handled behind closed doors. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has previously confirmed it is providing consular assistance to Mr. Brady's family. Brady had worked in a number of restaurants across the US since moving to the US and was remembered by friends as a 'gentleman, a brilliant chef, and a devoted father.' See More: Chef, Irish, Kansas City, Shaun Brady, US
Sunday World
06-05-2025
- Sunday World
Mother of two boys abducted by their father issues fresh appeal to the government for help
Mandy Kelly's sons Zayn (6) and Kareem (3) were taken by their father Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed in 2022 while on a family holiday to his native Egypt. Mandy Kelly, whose two children were abducted by their father in Egypt. Photo: Mark Condren The mother of two young boys who were abducted by their father has issued a fresh appeal to the Irish government to help bring her sons home. Mandy Kelly's sons Zayn (6) and Kareem (3) were taken by their father Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed in 2022 while on a family holiday to his native Egypt. Even though Egyptian courts have given full custody to Mandy, and Irish courts have issued a return order, the children remain with their father somewhere in Cairo, a city of 11 million people. The Dundalk mother has issued the appeal as Ireland and Egypt mark 50 years of diplomatic relations. 'It is my earnest hope that the occasion of this historic diplomatic milestone may also serve as an opportunity for both governments to affirm their mutual commitment to the principles of international law, justice, and the protection of vulnerable citizens, particularly children,' she said in a statement. Ms Kelly also thanked the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Tánaiste, Mr. Simon Harris, for his 'steadfast support of her case and his renewed commitment to engage with the Egyptian authorities on her behalf.' She has been fighting for her sons to be returned to her care since 2022. Read more Irish mum of kidnapped boys calls on Government to issue Interpol alert Mandy and her husband brought their two sons on holiday to Egypt so their family could meet newborn Kareem On the day they were due to fly back to Ireland, Rami told Mandy he would not be returning, and neither were her sons. He then fled with the young boys, and demanded that if she wanted to see them again, she had to return to Ireland and sell their family home. Last month, she travelled to Egypt for the sixth time and appeared before the courts as her mother-in-law appealed the custody application, which was denied to her in December 2024. However, her mother-in-law failed to appear, resulting in an adjournment of the case. While in Egypt, she met with a senior official from the Egyptian Ministry of Justice who gave updates on the case and advised that the Egyptian Embassy in Ireland have discussed 'the potential negotiation of a bilateral agreement on matters relating to child abduction' with the Irish Department of Justice. There are outstanding arrest warrants issued by Ireland and the EU for Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed. He is also the subject of an INTERPOL blue notice - the purpose of which is to gather information about a person's activities, including their location in relation to a criminal investigation. Mandy appeared on Crime World in 2024 and gave an interview about her ordeal. 'I offered to have both his Irish arrest warrant and a European arrest warrant dropped, in exchange for my children. But that was also ignored….And all the while I know my children are in the hands of people that don't really care. Mandy Kelly and her children, Zayn (5) and Kareem (3). Ms Kelly hasn't seen the boys since 2022 'They're just using them as pawns,' she told host Nicola Tallant. 'My two sons are actually being held as hostages…I haven't seen them since they were three years old and 18 months. 'I have to put my faith in Egyptian police to find them,' she continued. She also opened up about suffering domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. 'Looking back, I could have been more wary of his motives' she said. 'It started with a phase of love bombing, then slowly he devalued and degraded me… If the abuse was everyday, you would leave, but when you get sprinkles of kindness, it can be very difficult; they distort your reality.' Once Zayn was born, Mandy says her husband became even more controlling. 'He knew he had me', she explained. 'I had a very young baby at the time, I just wanted to keep the peace'. In Ireland, Mandy found herself trapped in a cycle of control despite being the breadwinner and primary caregiver. 'There were incredibly aggressive outbursts and he used disgusting, manipulative tactics, preventing me from socialising and isolating me from my family, so I had to rely on him,' she said. 'I hoped the trip would help him destress and return to Ireland in a much better place. 'It was ultimately one of the worst decisions I have ever made.'
