Irish Examiner view: Diplomatic ties need not hinder close scrutiny of Israel's conduct

The Taoiseach’s warning about Ireland losing its influence if it went too far sanctioning Israel was well made. He and the Tánaiste have offered valuable leadership

Smoke rising from Gaza which was subjected to sustained bombardment by Israeli forces. Picture: Fadel Senna/AFP/Getty

The Government won two votes in the Dáil this week that were related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

One vote was on Sinn Féin’s call for the Government to refer Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC), but that was defeated, as was the Social Democrats’ motion seeking the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador to Ireland.