The Irish government defeated a motion to stop the Central Bank from facilitating the sale of Israeli bonds, which provide economic support to Israel during military operations in Gaza. The motion was supported by several political parties but failed with 85 votes against and 71 in favor. Taoiseach Micheál Martin defended the government's position, stating that the Central Bank operates independently and cannot be directed by the government. Protests against the bond sales have been ongoing outside the parliament and Central Bank.