EU must seek commitment from Israel that civilian attacks in Gaza will stop

Labour Party Leader, Ivana Bacik TD has contacted President Von Der Leyen of the EU Commission to request that the EU seek a commitment from Israel that they will stop attacks upon the civilian population of Gaza and refrain from any further breaches of international humanitarian law; and that they will not commence a ground invasion.

Deputy Bacik said:

“We have all watched closely with great distress the tragic events ongoing in Israel and Palestine following the horrific and brutal attacks by Hamas upon Israeli civilians, which I condemned when they were carried out. Over recent days, like many I have become increasingly concerned at the actions being taken by Israel in breach of international humanitarian law against the people of Palestine. I have condemned these appalling actions which have led to such a grave loss of civilian life in Gaza, through the ongoing bombardment, siege, and forced evacuation of thousands of civilians. I am also deeply concerned at the imminent threat of a ground invasion into Gaza by Israel.

“Yesterday, I communicated directly with President Von Der Leyen of the EU Commission to request that the EU seek a commitment from Israel that they will stop their attacks upon the civilian population of Gaza; and that they will not commence a ground invasion.

“I also call on others to do the same – it is very important that we maintain pressure on the EU Commission to ensure a clear and coherent response to the ongoing breaches of international law by Israel and that we maintain supports for the thousands of civilians in Gaza who now face such an appalling humanitarian catastrophe.”