The Chief Executive of Web Summit, Paddy Cosgrave, has issued an apology to anyone hurt by his recent comments in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In a blog on the company's website, Mr Cosgrave said he understands that what he said, the timing of it and the way it has been presented has caused profound hurt to many.
"To anyone who was hurt by my words, I apologise deeply," he wrote.
"What is needed at this time is compassion, and I did not convey that. My aim is and always has been to strive for peace."
"Ultimately, I hope with all my heart that this can be achieved."
Mr Cosgrave added that he unreservedly condemns "Hamas’ evil, disgusting and monstrous October 7 attack."
"I also call for the unconditional release of all hostages. As a parent, I sympathise deeply with the families of the victims of this appalling act, and mourn for all the innocent lives lost in this and other conflicts," he said.
"I unequivocally support Israel’s right to exist and to defend itself. I unequivocally support a two-state solution."
He continued: "Like so many figures globally, I also believe that, in defending itself, Israel should adhere to international law and the Geneva Conventions – ie, not commit war crimes."
"This belief applies equally to any state in any conflict. No country should breach these laws, even if atrocities were committed against it."
Yesterday, the Israeli Ambassador to Portugal, said his country would not be participating in next month's Web Summit in Lisbon, because of Mr Cosgrave’s comments, describing them as "outrageous statements".
Dor Shapira claimed dozens of companies had already cancelled their participation in the conference and he encouraged others to do so.
On Friday, Mr Cosgrave wrote in a post on X that he was "shocked at the rhetoric and actions of so many Western leaders & governments, with the exception in particular of Ireland’s government, who for once are doing the right thing."
"War crimes are war crimes even when committed by allies, and should be called out for what they are," he stated.
That tweet was met with strong and at times angry responses by a range of tech figures and others.
However, as recently as yesterday evening, Mr Cosgrave again posted on X repeating his view that "War crimes are war crimes even when committed by allies & should be called out for what they are. I will not relent."
While this morning, several hours before he apologised, Mr Cosgrave continued to post in defence of his comments.
He added that while nine investors had cancelled participation in Web Summit, 35 new ones had registered and more tickets had been sold yesterday than on any other Monday this year.
"You can’t be cancelled for wanting peace and adherence to international human rights law. Solidarity with innocent civilians on all sides. I’m not going to relent," he wrote.
