War in Gaza:TAOISEACH BRIAN Cowen has condemned Israel's nine-day military action against Gaza and has urged an immediate ceasefire in the region.
Mr Cowen called for the Israeli government to declare an immediate ceasefire and withdraw the military forces it deployed to Gaza at the weekend. He also demanded that Hamas end its rocket attacks on Israel and stressed the need for "real political progress" in relation to efforts to establish "an independent and free homeland" for Palestinians.
The Taoiseach said it was "hugely disappointing" that the UN Security Council has so far failed to reach agreement on calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
"We need to see the Security Council of the United Nations confirming that a ceasefire must take place so that a space for dialogue can be created," he told RTÉ radio yesterday.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin described the military incursion launched by Israel on Saturday as representing an "extremely dangerous escalation" of the situation.
"I condemn this disproportionate use of force by Israel which, as United Nations secretary general Ban has pointed out, will only further complicate the search for peace and an end to this appalling conflict," Mr Martin said.
"I again urge an immediate cessation of hostilities by all sides and the establishment of an effective and sustainable ceasefire. This must include the ending of all rocket attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian militants on southern Israel as well as the opening of crossing points for the urgent delivery of humanitarian supplies and the facilitation of humanitarian access."
The Minister said Ireland would continue to work with its EU and international partners to try and achieve a diplomatic resolution.
Meanwhile, Irish Aid, the Government's overseas development division, yesterday announced extra funding of €500,000 to support humanitarian agencies working in Gaza.
It follows a call by EU foreign ministers meeting in Paris last week for the urgent delivery of food and medical supplies to help alleviate civilian suffering in the territory.
Announcing the funding, Minister of State Peter Power paid tribute to humanitarian personnel working under "the most difficult and trying circumstances".