DUBLIN, Oct 6, 2025 – The Irish government has confirmed the release of several Irish citizens who were detained by Israeli authorities, with the individuals now en route home following a weekend of intense diplomatic negotiations.
In a statement issued today, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris announced the positive development, crediting the swift action of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials, including the embassy team in Tel Aviv, who collaborated closely with international partners to secure the detainees’ freedom.
“I can confirm that the Irish citizens detained in Israel have been released and are currently on their journey home,” Harris said. “This welcome outcome was secured after a weekend of intensive efforts by officials from across my Department, including the Embassy team in Tel Aviv, working in conjunction with international partners.”
The detainees were part of a humanitarian flotilla attempting to deliver aid to Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Their interception and brief detention highlighted the risks faced by activists navigating the tense waters near the Gaza Strip.
Harris acknowledged the emotional toll of the ordeal, paying tribute to the resilience of those involved. “I know that this has been a difficult time for both the Irish citizens and their families, and I pay tribute to their strength throughout,” he stated. Dublin-based officials from the Department will continue providing support and updates to affected families who have requested assistance.
The Tánaiste also addressed broader concerns, noting that the Department is monitoring other Irish nationals participating in similar aid missions to Gaza. “I am also aware of a number of Irish citizens participating in other flotillas en route to Gaza and have instructed my Department to closely monitor that evolving situation,” Harris said. While reiterating the government’s longstanding advisory against all travel to the Gaza Strip due to the volatile security environment, he emphasized that the welfare of Irish citizens remains the top priority.
As the released individuals make their way back to Ireland, the government reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the wider crisis in the region. “As we welcome our citizens home, Ireland will continue to call for all efforts to reach an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas, and unhindered humanitarian access to the people of Gaza at scale,” Harris concluded.
The incident underscores Ireland’s active diplomatic role in advocating for humanitarian access to Gaza, where the blockade and ongoing hostilities have severely restricted aid deliveries. No further details on the number of released citizens or the specifics of their detention were immediately disclosed, pending family notifications.
The Department of Foreign Affairs urged Irish citizens in the region to exercise extreme caution and register with the embassy for consular support. Updates on the situation will be provided via official channels as they become available.