Harris to Brief Cabinet on Proposed EU Action Regarding Israel
Tánaiste Simon Harris is scheduled to update the Cabinet today on proposed measures from the European Commission aimed at increasing pressure on Israel concerning its actions in Gaza and the West Bank.
The update follows the release of a report by an independent UN commission yesterday,concluding that Israel has committed and continues to commit genocide against Palestinians in the region.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, is expected to propose the suspension of preferential tariff rates currently granted to Israel under the EU-Israel association Agreement later today.
sources indicate the Tánaiste will emphasize the importance of allowing EU Member States the possibility to vote on and implement these measures swiftly. He will argue that a unified EU approach is crucial to effectively pressure Israel to halt actions deemed genocidal.
Harris believes the commission’s proposals offer a important opportunity for the EU to take concrete action, and will prioritize this issue during his upcoming engagement at the UN General Assembly in New York next week.
Dáil Returns with Focus on Cost of Living and Rights Issues
Ahead of the Dáil’s return from its summer recess, the Cabinet will convene at Government Buildings in Dublin. Taoiseach Micheál Martin will face questions from Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald,Labor Leader Ivana Bacik,and independent TDs.
A recent increase in electricity charges is anticipated to fuel Opposition calls for a new cost-of-living package to be included in next month’s Budget. The Government, however, has signaled its preference for targeted measures over a further round of universal electricity credits.
The Dáil agenda also includes statements on the new National Human rights Strategy for Disabled People (2025-2030), and a private members motion brought forward by Sinn Féin concerning the provision of special education school places.
