Swansea Family’s Anxious Wait as Grandmother, 70, Held in Israeli Prison
The son of a 70-year-old pro-Palestinian activist from Swansea has described being “in the dark” as his mother remains detained in an Israeli prison, sparking a diplomatic and legal effort to secure her release.
Deirdre Murphy, a well-known activist in Swansea and her native Cork, Ireland, was taken into custody on May 31st in the occupied West Bank. She was volunteering with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a pro-Palestinian group, in the southern part of the territory when she was arrested.
Her son, Dale Ryan, who lives on the Gower peninsula, says the family is desperate for news. “My mother is quite a resilient person,” he said, “but as the days go on, she is becoming fatigued, and probably a bit anxious about the whole situation.”
The family’s anxiety is compounded by what her lawyer describes as a “deeply troubling” denial of legal access. According to her son, Ms. Murphy was arrested after being accused of being in a military zone. She was first taken to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv before being transferred to Givon Prison in Ramla on June 3rd.
Her Israeli lawyer, Noa Dagoni, stated that the handling of the case constitutes a “serious and unlawful violation” of Ms. Murphy’s rights. “Since her detention at Givon prison, Ms. Murphy has been unable to contact me, despite multiple requests,” Ms. Dagoni explained. She added that Ms. Murphy was denied legal counsel during her detention review tribunal hearing.
Mr. Ryan confirmed he has not spoken to his mother personally since the arrest, receiving updates only through her lawyer and the ISM. “She has some chest problems, which is concerning for us,” he said, expressing his desperation to “know she is in good health.”
Ms. Murphy has been a dedicated activist in the region for over two decades. Her journey into advocacy began in 2004 when she organised a four-day fundraising walk around the Gower peninsula to contribute to aid and facilities in Palestine. In recent years, she has spent significant time in Masafer Yatta, the area where she was arrested.
The case has drawn the attention of Swansea West’s Labour MP, Torsten Bell, who has been contacted by “hundreds of constituents” concerned for Ms. Murphy’s welfare.
“I’ve been in touch with Deirdre’s family and am liaising with both the Irish government, who are providing consular support, and the UK Foreign Office,” Mr. Bell stated. “I am particularly concerned that Ms. Murphy may not have legal representation. We all want to see Deirdre released as soon as possible.”
The West Bank, home to approximately three million Palestinians, has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War. The continued building of Israeli settlements in the territory is regarded as illegal under international law, a position Israel disputes.
The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed it is “aware of the case and is providing consular assistance.” The UK Foreign Office stated they have not been approached for assistance but “stand ready to support British Nationals overseas 24/7.” The Israeli government has been approached for comment.
