Sinn Féin spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Matt Carthy TD, has condemned an attack on the EU ambassador to Sudan, Aidan O’Hara, in his home during clashes in Khartoum.  

Sending his best wishes to Mr. O’Hara and he family, Carthy said that every effort must be made particularly by host countries, but also representative States, to protect diplomats in conflict zones.

Teachta Carthy said:

“Reports of escalating clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces are a cause of grave concern.

“I extend my best wishes to EU ambassador Aidan O’Hara and his family following the attack on him. It will be a huge relief to all who know him, and indeed all of us whom he serves, that he has been reported to be ‘OK’ following the attack.

“I understand that the Department of Foreign Affairs has been in touch with the Ambassador and I am confident that all necessary supports will be afforded to him and to all diplomatic staff in the country. 

“The protection of diplomatic facilities and staff is an obligation under Vienna Convention. This attack serves to underscore the fragility of the situation which has seen nearly 200 people killed and some 1.800 wounded.

“The responsibility for the protection of diplomats’ rests primarily with the government of the host country. It is also important that the Irish government and the European Union ensure that these situations are closely monitored so that all efforts are utilised to protect our representatives in conflict zones such as Sudan.

“The current unrest does not serve the interests of the Sudanese people and what is now needed is a cessation of all hostilities to facilitate the resumption of talks in support of a permanent transition to democratic administration.”