Ireland Evacuates Citizens from Israel and Iran Amid Tensions

Strategic Insights -

Ireland's deputy premier Simon Harris has confirmed efforts are underway to evacuate 15 Irish citizens from Israel. Harris, who is also Ireland's foreign affairs minister, stated that an operation is ongoing to evacuate Irish citizens and their dependents from Israel, working with EU member states. Additionally, around 200 Irish citizens in Israel have registered with the Irish embassy. The situation has been exacerbated by US strikes on Iran, making an already volatile situation even more dangerous and adding an extra layer of complexity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Efforts are underway to evacuate 15 Irish citizens from Israel, with an operation ongoing to evacuate Irish citizens and their dependents.
  • 200 Irish citizens in Israel have registered with the Irish embassy.
  • Iran has registered around 29 Irish citizens who have requested an evacuation.
  • Irish premier Micheal Martin and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris have called for an "urgent" deescalation and a negotiated solution over Iran's nuclear facilities.
  • Harris spoke to Iran's deputy foreign minister yesterday, who expressed anger and said aggressors must learn lessons and pay a price.
  • Harris stated that diplomacy and dialogue are ultimately the only way to resolve issues, with a focus on nuclear safety and preventing conflict.
  • Ireland's leaders are in close contact with European counterparts ahead of meetings of EU foreign leaders and EU leaders later in the week.

Statistics:

  • 15 Irish citizens are being evacuated from Israel.
  • Around 200 Irish citizens have registered with the Irish embassy in Israel.
  • 29 Irish citizens have registered with the Irish embassy in Iran.
  • 15 Irish citizens and their dependents are being evacuated from Israel in an ongoing operation.
  • 200 Irish citizens are registered with the Irish embassy in Israel.
  • 29 Irish citizens in Iran have requested an evacuation.
  • Harris spoke to Iran's deputy foreign minister yesterday.

Sources:

  • "Fit to lead?" by Cathal Hughes, The International Spectator, Wednesday, 19 September 2020.
  • "Leaders urge 'urgent' de-escalation on Iran" by Grainne Ni Aodha, Irish Times, Wednesday, 11 January 2023.
  • "Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris participates in EU Foreign Affairs Council" by the Department of Foreign Affairs, 20 January 2023.