75. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Ireland together with its European Union partners are considering possible diplomatic avenues and approaches to address Iran’s lack of response to international pressure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63341/26]

Ireland and our EU partners regularly discuss relations with Iran, alongside regional security. This includes efforts to end the recent conflict; concerns about Iran's nuclear programme; Iran's appalling human rights record and violent suppression of popular dissent; Iran's military assistance to militant groups around the Middle East and to Russia's war against Ukraine; and criminal activities in other countries, including in Europe.

These are serious concerns, and major impediments to better and more normal relations with Iran. The EU and its Member States continually make clear their readiness to engage with and discuss these issues with the Iranian authorities. Ireland's re-opening of its Embassy in Tehran in recent years stands as a concrete example of that wish to engage. Having a presence on the ground strengthens our ability to monitor and understand developments in the country and allows us to raise our concerns directly with the Iranian authorities.

There has been little willingness on the Iranian side to discuss their policies and the negative impacts they are having. The authorities also greatly hinder and inhibit the kind of outreach to the wider Iranian public which is a normal part of an Embassy's work. Furthermore, the short conflict in 2025 and the war in 2026 have exacerbated these difficulties.

Nonetheless, these efforts will continue, hoping that Iranian leaders will choose a different course, and that meaningful progress can be made.