Irish Foreign Minister first to enter Gaza Strip

PATRICK COOPER,

IrishCentral.com Staff Writer

Published Thursday, February 25, 2010, 7:35 AM

Updated Thursday, February 25, 2010, 8:01 AM

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Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin has arrived in the Gaza Strip in the first ever visit to the Hamas-ruled enclave by a top Western government official.

No American or European leader or senior figure has visited since Gaza was taken over by Hamas in June, 2007.

The EU and the U.S. declared a boycott of Hamas at the time because of its refusal to recognize Israel and renounce violence.

Escorted by United Nations vehicles, Martin entered through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

Israel had turned down his request last year to enter Gaza. He does not intend to met with Hamas

Martin's visit to comes after widespread anger in Ireland over the use of Irish passports by an alleged Israeli hit squad that killed a Hamas militant in Dubai recently.

As many as ten legitimate Irish passports may have been used in the assassination.

Nster.com

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shuvonn | Jun 01, 2010, 09:52 AM EDT

America recognizes Israel, funds it even you know that country that uses fake Irish passports for murder, acts like a rogue state when it suits, are you familiar with them?? American does NOTHING for Irish Immigrants, the numbers are SO low when doling out visa's it's pathetic. You mean America of the kind NO IRISH NEED APPLY OPPORTUNITY????

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LORIEANN | Apr 27, 2010, 06:48 PM EDT

what a dope...lets recognize assassins, killers and bombers as our great friends ...great decision Ireland...lets stick it to the Americans...you know the country that gave your countrymen refuge and opportunity

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