Statement by the Tánaiste on the investigation by the International Criminal Court into the situation in Palestine

"The International Criminal Court is the cornerstone of the system of international criminal justice, promoting and upholding the rule of law and pursuing accountability for the most serious international crimes.

"Ireland is a consistent and strong supporter of the Court, and of its independence and impartiality.

"The ICC has jurisdiction over the situation in Palestine, which was referred to the Prosecutor under Article 14, back in 2014. The Prosecutor announced the opening of an investigation into the situation in Palestine (including Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem) in March 2021. The investigation covers all crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court, including war crimes and crimes against humanity, alleged to have been committed since 2014 (the date of referral). This gives the Court jurisdiction over any crimes committed within Palestine, and/or by Palestinian nationals outside it (including in Israel).

"Importantly, the current Prosecutor, Karim Khan, has made absolutely clear on a number of occasions over the last month that this investigation covers the current conflict, including all events on and from 7 October this year. He has confirmed that there is an active investigation ongoing in relation to the situation in Palestine.

"Ireland will continue to fully support the ICC in its vitally important work in investigating all the situations before it, whether that be in Ukraine, Darfur, Palestine, Libya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or elsewhere. All victims, everywhere, are equally deserving of justice and accountability."