Opinion
02 Oct 25

President Higgins issues statement on Gaza Sumud Flotilla

President Michael D. Higgins at the Irish Music Month launch at Áras an Uachtaráin. Copyright Miguel Ruiz.

In his statement the president said "all of these events should alarm the entire world".

President Michael D. Higgins has issued a statement on the Global Sumud Flotilla.

The statement comes as numerous Irish activists are among those detained by Israel after a number of boats were intercepted last night.

The fleet is comprised of activists from over 40 countries, including multiple politicians and artists as well as Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.

The GSF is the most high-profile mission expressing opposition to Israel's blockade of Gaza.

Statement by President Higgins on Global Sumud Flotilla

October 1, 2025

"In recent weeks there was a near consensus among members of the United Nations that a Palestinian State should be recognized as an essential building block for peace in the region.

We might well ask where stands this commitment now if a flotilla involving more than 40 boats and more than 500 people from the international community seeking to bring humanitarian aid - water, medicines and food to those who are in desperate need - is being prevented from achieving that humanitarian objective.

The safety and protection of those involved in this humanitarian exercise is a concern for all of us and all of the nations from which the people come.

Gaza and the West Bank are part of what would be a Palestinian State. It is to occupied territory that the flotilla is directing its humanitarian mission.

At the same time as this is occurring, the exit from northern Gaza towards the south is in danger of being blocked, leaving a civilian population who could not be more vulnerable to the mercy of endless bombing and the destruction of their homes.

Put together with the now clearly recognised breaches of international law and the status of the International Committee of the Red Cross being forced to suspend operations in Gaza City to this civilian population, all of these events should alarm the entire world.”