Irish President Michael D Higgins has called for Israel and its arms suppliers to be excluded from the United Nations, citing allegations of genocide in Gaza based on a UN Human Rights Council report.

The report, commissioned by the UN Human Rights Council and authored by independent experts, accuses Israel of committing genocide during its ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, and blames Israeli officials like President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

A UN commission concluded that Israel has been committing genocide in Gaza since October 7, 2023, with the intent to destroy Palestinians, though it cannot take direct action but may influence international courts.

Higgins made these remarks during his last major public appearance at the National Ploughing Championships, emphasizing the urgency of addressing alleged atrocities in Gaza as he prepares to leave office.

His statement highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for international response, coinciding with his departure from office.

Higgins also stressed the importance of excluding those practicing or supporting genocide from the UN and called for ending trade with such entities, framing it as a crucial step before leaving office.

Israel has refused to cooperate with the UN inquiry, dismissing the genocide allegations as antisemitic, and has called for the report's dissolution, framing criticism as anti-Semitic and equating it to Holocaust denial.

The European Union has condemned Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza, warning it will lead to more civilian casualties, but admits it lacks the tools to stop Israel’s military actions.

The EU has faced criticism for its limited support and inconsistent approach toward the Palestinian cause compared to its response to Ukraine, with analysts noting insufficient actions to aid Palestinians.

The UN Commission of Inquiry, established four years ago, has documented numerous human rights abuses and violations since Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023, but cannot take direct action; its findings may influence international courts.

Ireland recognized the State of Palestine last year and has supported legal actions against Israel, including accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice.