The Five Demands

Israel police arrest ‘IRA bombmaker’ (UTV)

There have been reports that police in Israel are questioning a former IRA bombmaker over alleged links with Palestinian militants.

The suspect is understood to have been arrested in the West Bank where authorities believe he was involved in training insurgents.

Reports in the media have claimed the man is a former member of the IRA who later joined the Real IRA after the republican paramilitary organisation split.

The news comes amid peace talks between Israeli and Palestinian leaders.

It is very concerning that dissident republican terrorists appear to be building some links with international terrorists.

Robin Newton
It is expected that US Secretary of State John Kerry will soon put forward a framework agreement which may suggest a phased Israeli withdrawal from the disputed West Bank.

Robin Newton of the DUP said the news is “extremely disturbing”.

The east Belfast MLA added: “From what has been reported in the press it seems obvious this man has a known and disreputable reputation and he is known to the PSNI and also internationally.

“If, as the reports suggest, he is a bomber for hire the Israeli Defence Forces and the international intelligence agencies need to help the PSNI put him behind bars.

“Taking these people off the streets has benefits not just locally, but well beyond our shores.

“The peace talks involving US Secretary of State John Kerry are at a delicate stage. The arrest of a known bomb maker engaged by the Palestinian militants will destroy what little confidence there is and be an impediment within this process.”