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See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Ireland to Ban Imports from Israeli Settlements
Israa Farhan Ireland is set to become the first European Union member state to ban the import of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories. This move marks a significant and symbolic stand in international trade and human rights policy. The Irish government has approved draft legislation to ban trade in products originating from settlements that are widely regarded by the international community as illegal under international law. A representative from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed the government's decision to proceed with the legislation. The law is designed to prevent the import of goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, which Ireland views as a legal obligation based on international law. The bill is now set to be debated and voted on in the Irish Parliament. While the economic impact is expected to be minimal—total trade between Ireland and the occupied territories was valued at under €1 million between 2020 and 2024—the decision carries significant political and diplomatic weight. The proposed ban targets physical goods, such as fruit, vegetables, and timber, that are produced in Israeli settlements. The legislation will not affect services like tourism or technology. This decision follows an advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in July 2024, which reaffirmed the view that Israeli settlements in the occupied territories are illegal under international law. Ireland has chosen to align its policy with this interpretation, reaffirming its commitment to upholding international legal standards. Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris expressed hope that Ireland's position will inspire other European nations to follow suit. By becoming the first Western country to adopt such legislation, Ireland is positioning itself as a leader in promoting legal and moral accountability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The proposed law will be reviewed by a parliamentary committee in June, with a final vote expected in the autumn. If passed, Ireland will become the first EU country to formally restrict trade with Israeli settlements on legal and ethical grounds. This announcement comes after Ireland, Spain, and Norway officially recognised the State of Palestine in May 2024, with Slovenia joining shortly after. These moves prompted retaliatory actions from Israel, further complicating EU-Israel relations. At the same time, French President Emmanuel Macron has indicated that France may soon recognise Palestine as well. Ireland's decision follows a broader trend of increasing scrutiny of EU-Israel relations. The European Union is currently reviewing its 1995 Association Agreement with Israel, which governs trade and diplomatic relations between the two entities. The review comes amid growing concerns about Israel's settlement policies and a desire to hold Israel accountable for its actions in the occupied territories. Conor O'Neill, a representative from Christian Aid Ireland, welcomed the legislation, calling it the first meaningful trade action within the EU against illegal settlement products. He described it as a positive step that is much needed in the ongoing push for justice in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The United Nations estimates that about 500,000 Israeli settlers live illegally in the West Bank, alongside around three million Palestinians. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967, and the expansion of settlements continues to be one of the most contentious issues in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While the economic impact of Ireland's decision may be limited, its symbolic significance is far-reaching. The move signals growing frustration within parts of Europe over the lack of progress in reaching a two-state solution. It could pave the way for other EU nations to consider similar actions against Israel's settlement expansion and bolster international efforts to support Palestinian statehood. As global pressure on Israel increases, Ireland's legislative action could set an important precedent, influencing EU foreign and trade policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the years to come. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies
Irish Post
24-05-2025
- Irish Post
Teen accused of killing Irish chef to be tried as juvenile
A US judge has ruled that the teenager accused of the fatal shooting of Irish chef Shaun Brady in Kansas City, Missouri, will be tried as a juvenile—a decision that has sparked protests from the extensive Irish community in Missouri. Shaun Brady, originally from Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, was shot and killed on August 28, 2024, while at his bar and restaurant in the city's Brookside area, a district known for its nightlife and restaurants. Jackson County Courthouse The 44-year-old had emigrated to the United States a number of years ago and was well-regarded in the Kansas City hospitality scene. He was known as a friendly and caring host at Brady & Fox, the restaurant and bar he co-owned in the Brookside district of the city. He is survived by his wife, Kate, and their two children, Seamus and Mary. The suspect, identified as K.H. and can't be named as he is a juvenile, was 15 at the time of the alleged offence. Prosecutors had sought to have the teenager tried as an adult, citing the seriousness of the charges. However, during a recent hearing in Jackson County, a judge determined that the case would remain in the juvenile court system. The decision means the accused cannot face adult penalties, such as a life sentence without parole. If convicted, the sentence is likely to focus more on rehabilitation than punishment, with the possibility of release by the age of 21. Brady's death sent shockwaves through both the Irish diaspora in the US and his home community in Ireland. Tributes poured in at the time from friends, colleagues, and former classmates in Nenagh, where he had grown up. His funeral, held in Kansas City, was attended by hundreds, including Irish nationals living in the Midwest. The Brady family has not made a public statement in response to the judge's ruling. However, friends of the family have expressed disappointment, saying they believe justice is best served through an adult trial. The legal proceedings are expected to continue in the juvenile court over the coming months. Because of the accused's status as a minor, many aspects of the case will now be handled behind closed doors. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has previously confirmed it is providing consular assistance to Mr. Brady's family. Brady had worked in a number of restaurants across the US since moving to the US and was remembered by friends as a 'gentleman, a brilliant chef, and a devoted father.' See More: Chef, Irish, Kansas City, Shaun Brady, US
Sunday World
06-05-2025
- Sunday World
Mother of two boys abducted by their father issues fresh appeal to the government for help
Mandy Kelly's sons Zayn (6) and Kareem (3) were taken by their father Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed in 2022 while on a family holiday to his native Egypt. Mandy Kelly, whose two children were abducted by their father in Egypt. Photo: Mark Condren The mother of two young boys who were abducted by their father has issued a fresh appeal to the Irish government to help bring her sons home. Mandy Kelly's sons Zayn (6) and Kareem (3) were taken by their father Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed in 2022 while on a family holiday to his native Egypt. Even though Egyptian courts have given full custody to Mandy, and Irish courts have issued a return order, the children remain with their father somewhere in Cairo, a city of 11 million people. The Dundalk mother has issued the appeal as Ireland and Egypt mark 50 years of diplomatic relations. 'It is my earnest hope that the occasion of this historic diplomatic milestone may also serve as an opportunity for both governments to affirm their mutual commitment to the principles of international law, justice, and the protection of vulnerable citizens, particularly children,' she said in a statement. Ms Kelly also thanked the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Tánaiste, Mr. Simon Harris, for his 'steadfast support of her case and his renewed commitment to engage with the Egyptian authorities on her behalf.' She has been fighting for her sons to be returned to her care since 2022. Read more Irish mum of kidnapped boys calls on Government to issue Interpol alert Mandy and her husband brought their two sons on holiday to Egypt so their family could meet newborn Kareem On the day they were due to fly back to Ireland, Rami told Mandy he would not be returning, and neither were her sons. He then fled with the young boys, and demanded that if she wanted to see them again, she had to return to Ireland and sell their family home. Last month, she travelled to Egypt for the sixth time and appeared before the courts as her mother-in-law appealed the custody application, which was denied to her in December 2024. However, her mother-in-law failed to appear, resulting in an adjournment of the case. While in Egypt, she met with a senior official from the Egyptian Ministry of Justice who gave updates on the case and advised that the Egyptian Embassy in Ireland have discussed 'the potential negotiation of a bilateral agreement on matters relating to child abduction' with the Irish Department of Justice. There are outstanding arrest warrants issued by Ireland and the EU for Ramy Gamal Maamoun Mohamed. He is also the subject of an INTERPOL blue notice - the purpose of which is to gather information about a person's activities, including their location in relation to a criminal investigation. Mandy appeared on Crime World in 2024 and gave an interview about her ordeal. 'I offered to have both his Irish arrest warrant and a European arrest warrant dropped, in exchange for my children. But that was also ignored….And all the while I know my children are in the hands of people that don't really care. Mandy Kelly and her children, Zayn (5) and Kareem (3). Ms Kelly hasn't seen the boys since 2022 'They're just using them as pawns,' she told host Nicola Tallant. 'My two sons are actually being held as hostages…I haven't seen them since they were three years old and 18 months. 'I have to put my faith in Egyptian police to find them,' she continued. She also opened up about suffering domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. 'Looking back, I could have been more wary of his motives' she said. 'It started with a phase of love bombing, then slowly he devalued and degraded me… If the abuse was everyday, you would leave, but when you get sprinkles of kindness, it can be very difficult; they distort your reality.' Once Zayn was born, Mandy says her husband became even more controlling. 'He knew he had me', she explained. 'I had a very young baby at the time, I just wanted to keep the peace'. In Ireland, Mandy found herself trapped in a cycle of control despite being the breadwinner and primary caregiver. 'There were incredibly aggressive outbursts and he used disgusting, manipulative tactics, preventing me from socialising and isolating me from my family, so I had to rely on him,' she said. 'I hoped the trip would help him destress and return to Ireland in a much better place. 'It was ultimately one of the worst decisions I have ever made.'
Irish Daily Star
28-04-2025
- Irish Daily Star
Irish tourists subjected to new rule to enter popular holiday destination from May
A new entry requirement has been announced for holiday-makers planning to visit Thailand. From 1 May 2025, all foreign visitors will be required to complete the new online Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before their arrival. This applies regardless of whether you're arriving by air, land or sea. The Thai government says this will streamline immigration and entry processes. The previous paper system, which ended in April 2024, has been replaced by this digital system. Travelers can fill out their Digital Arrival Card on the official Thai immigration bureau website, providing details such as travel plans, passport information, and accommodation details. Read More Related Articles Donald Trump branded 'disgusting' as he honors Pope Francis in 'baffling' way Read More Related Articles Donald Trump loses the plot as he compares tariff flip-flop to running through a wall This can be done up to three days before arriving in Thailand. It's advised to keep a copy of your Digital Arrival Card throughout your stay in the country, either saved on your phone or backed up elsewhere. Reports suggest that you may need to show the Digital Arrival Card again when leaving the country or at various points during your travels within Thailand, such as when flying between cities, reports RSVP Live . Approximately 70,000 Irish people visit Thailand each year (Image: Getty Images) Irish holiday-makers won't need to worry about visas for short breaks or business trips to Thailand as stays of up to 60 days are visa-free. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has reminded travelers that a valid passport is necessary for entry into Thailand. They have also issued an update on the TDAC, stating, "From May 1 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand are required to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card at least 3 days in advance of their date of arrival. The application portal and further details can be found on the Thailand Digital Arrival Card website." In addition, they cautioned: "Thai immigration authorities are known to adopt a strict approach to accepting damaged passports." Furthermore, they advise, "Irish citizens are advised to renew their passport before travel to Thailand should it have any damage as Thai Immigration may refuse entry otherwise. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Passport cards cannot be used." For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .
The Independent
28-01-2025
- Politics
- The Independent
Bereaved father hopes Omagh inquiry ‘the beginning of the end'
Hope has been expressed that the Omagh Bombing Inquiry will be the 'beginning of the end' for the bereaved in their pursuit of answers. Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden was killed in the 1998 dissident republican bomb attack in the Co Tyrone town, also pressed the British and Irish governments to fully co-operate with the inquiry. The inquiry will examine whether the atrocity could have been prevented. It started four weeks of commemorative hearings on Tuesday, remembering the victims and hearing from those who were injured or directly affected. Mr Gallagher campaigned for many years for an inquiry, and took the legal action which resulted in a judge in 2021 finding it was plausible there was a real prospect the bombing could have been prevented by the security services, and calling for new investigations on both sides of the Irish border. In 2023, the UK government announced there would be an independent statutory inquiry into the bombing. I just hope for me that this is the beginning of the end, that we do get the answers we need, that both the British government and the Irish government fully co-operate with the inquiry and as a bereaved parent I can say that's all I can do Michael Gallagher Ruairi de Burca, director-general at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, attended the first public hearing of the Omagh inquiry last July. He told the inquiry that he was present on behalf of his government to signal in the 'clearest terms, our commitment to facilitating and supporting the work of this inquiry'. Mr Gallagher said on Tuesday: 'I just hope for me that this is the beginning of the end, that we do get the answers we need, that both the British government and the Irish government fully co-operate with the inquiry and as a bereaved parent I can say that's all I can do. 'I'm very grateful for everybody who helped us get to this point where we can see an end.' Mr Gallagher also praised the focus on the victims in this phase of the inquiry as 'bringing humanity' to proceedings. 'It's important to be here to support the other families, the Spanish families are giving evidence this morning, it's going to be difficult,' he said. 'It brings a lot of it back, but it's hugely important to focus this week and next week and the week after on the victims. In all of this, sometimes the voice of the victims is lost because there are so many technical arguments, but this brings humanity to it.'
