Paul Murphy TD freed by Egyptian authorities
People Before Profit
TD
Paul Murphy
has been freed by
Egyptian authorities
following his detention during a global peaceful march to
Gaza
on Friday.
Mr Murphy confirmed in a post on X this morning that he and others were 'finally released late last night at airport'.
'We are back in Cairo and meeting shortly to decide next steps. We're focused on Israel's genocide and starvation of Gaza. Thanks for your support. Free Palestine,' he wrote, adding that police still have participants' phones.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs
Simon Harris
also confirmed Mr Murphy's release in a statement this morning.
READ MORE
In a statement, the Tánaiste said he had spoken to Mr Murphy and confirmed his passport was returned to him following his release.
Mr Harris said he is 'pleased' that, following work by Irish embassy staff, 'all Irish people who were detained yesterday in Rafah have been released and have had their passports returned'.
He said the wellbeing and safety of all Irish citizens abroad is always of concern to him and to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
'I am aware some Irish citizens have not had their phones returned by the authorities and I have asked our embassy to pursue this,' he said.
Mr Murphy was detained on Friday afternoon along with a group of people who were travelling through Egypt to reach Rafah on the Global March to Gaza in an effort to get aid to people in the region.
People Before Profit–Solidarity TD Paul Murphy at Leinster House with his bag backed ahead of his trip to Cairo where he would attend the 'March to Gaza'. Photograph: Sam Boal/ Collins Photos
Meanwhile, Mr Harris said he spoke with Ireland's ambassadors to Israel, Iran and Egypt about escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking following these phone calls, the Tánaiste said Ireland's
embassy staff are 'safe and well'.
'This is a dangerous moment for the Middle East. I am deeply concerned about the continuing exchange of air attacks between Israel and Iran,' the Tánaiste said.
'I reiterate my call for both sides to urgently de-escalate, to open channels for communication and allow a return to diplomacy.
Mr Harris said that continuing military action will not bring security for any of the people of the region.
Ireland's embassies are in close contact with members of the Irish community to offer assistance, he said.
'We are also working closely with our European counterparts in relation to the situation that is unfolding.'
The Department of Foreign Affairs continues to advise against all travel to Iran and Israel for Irish citizens.
'Irish citizens in the region are advised to be vigilant and to follow the advice of local authorities, including any orders to shelter in place,' the Tánaiste added.
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