KHAN YOUNIS

“THEY HAVE RECOGNIZED the state of Palestine and we are the Government of Gaza, a constituent part of Palestine. We have a right to an embassy and since the Israelis are leaving, their embassy building will suit us fine.”

The Hamas official, who spoke these words, was forced to break off his conversation due to Israeli bombing of the apartment block he was sheltering under. Efforts to get him back failed.

An Irish Government spokesperson refused to comment on whether the Hamas request would be acceded to.