Irish president says sister 'kidnapped' by Israel on Gaza aid flotilla

Ireland’s president has condemned the seizure of a Gaza-bound aid flotilla by Israeli forces, saying her sister was among those taken.

Dr Margaret Connolly is one of six Irish citizens abducted from the Global Sumud Flotilla, according to organisers.

Speaking in London, President Catherine Connolly said: “It’s quite upsetting, and I’m very worried about her, and I’m also very concerned about her colleagues on board.”

Campaigners say more activists remain at risk as Israeli forces move to intercept additional vessels.

Karen Moynihan, Ireland lead for the flotilla, said six Irish citizens had been “kidnapped”, warning others remain in danger.

“So 15 Irish people – along with hundreds of other people – completely legally sailing on a humanitarian mission, have been intercepted and abused again by Israel,” she said.

She added: “Currently, over the past seven months, 33 Irish citizens have been kidnapped by Israel, and our Government is considering whether they’re even going to sanction Israel – it is absolutely horrific, and the Government needs to be called out fully on its complicity in genocide, and there is no other way to put it.”