Statement by Tánaiste Simon Harris following extraordinary meeting of EU Foreign Ministers

Today I attended an extraordinary meeting of European Foreign Ministers to discuss two urgent matters: the situation in Ukraine ahead of Friday’s meeting between President Trump and President Putin in Alaska, and the appalling humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza.

On Ukraine, I made it clear that Europe must intensify its engagement with the United States in advance of Friday’s meeting.

It’s important to remember that while this war is being fought on Ukrainian territory, it is also a war on the continent of Europe and against a country aspiring to join the European Union.

It was agreed that the EU will continue intensive engagement with the US and remain united in our unwavering support for Ukraine. I am grateful to the Ukrainian Foreign Minister for briefing us ahead of this crucial meeting.

On Gaza, I expressed my deep alarm at the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe and the genocidal actions taking place in Gaza.

At a time when there should be urgent efforts to secure a ceasefire, increase humanitarian aid, and release hostages, the Netanyahu government is instead moving in the opposite direction.

If Israel proceeds with its planned occupation on Gaza City, it will mean more bloodshed, more loss of life, more starvation, and an even greater distance from any hope of peace. The latest plan must not go ahead.

Europe must be clear and united in our calls for an immediate cessation of violence, a surge in humanitarian relief, and the release of all hostages.

I also made it clear that we now need the European Commission to come forward with concrete actions that Europe can take to increase the pressure on Israel to change course.

It is very clear that Israel is in breach of Article 2 of the Association Agreement and it is essential that, at our next Foreign Affairs meeting, concrete actions are taken and a menu of options is put on the table.

Ireland is firmly of the view that the Association Agreement should be suspended pending a cessation of all violence.

I made it clear to my European counterparts today that this remains Ireland’s position. We must take concrete actions, not just issue statements of condemnation.

ENDS

Press Office

11 August 2025