Mayo TD issues appeal over horrific loss of life in Middle East
A Mayo TD has issued an appeal as the horrific violence and loss of life in Israel and Gaza continues to shock us all.
Deputy Alan Dillon said when the EU General Assembly calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, backed by 150 countries including Ireland, it is a significant step.
He continued: "It highlights the growing isolation of the United States and Israel.
"I acknowledge the efforts of the Tánaiste and Taoiseach in condemning the war and calling for an immediate, permanent and sustainable ceasefire.
"However, as a government, we must continue to lead the pursuit and de-escalation of the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict.
"The indiscriminate bombing and the far too high number of Palestinian civilians killed, as stated by Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, is continuing and is completely unacceptable. Children in Gaza cannot suffer any more.
"Can we leverage our close ties with the Biden Administration and the EU to end the suffering despite international pressures?
"It has resisted calls for a ceasefire which would be of benefit to Hamas, as it has stated.
"We need to do more to help to stop this conflict."
Tanáiste Micheál Martin said Ireland is doing everything it possibly can at every forum to intensify the pressure for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.
"The situation in Gaza is intolerable and unacceptable.
"Over 18,000 people have been killed and 1.9 million people have been displaced. The death toll is totally shocking.
"The relentless bombing and slaughter of innocent civilians has to stop. I welcome the UN General Assembly passing the resolution which calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages and for all parties to protect civilians in respect of international humanitarian law.
"We co-sponsored the resolution and voted in favour of it, in line with our consistent calls for a humanitarian ceasefire.
"It illustrates the absurdity of the veto that so many people voted for the resolution, which is something we might keep in mind in respect of how that veto gets misused."