Labour condemns Al Aqsa Mosque Raid

Labour leader Ivana Bacik has condemned the brutal raid at the Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli forces.

Deputy Bacik said:

“Last night’s brutal raid at the Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli security forces is just the latest example of abuse by Israel of the rights of Palestinian people. It is cruel to attack people at their place of worship, but this is not the first time we have seen such an attack at what a significant site within Islam.

“It is clear that the current far-right government of Israel is engaging in apartheid-style policies, clearly in breach of international law and which must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

“The Irish people have shown strong support for Palestine and the rights of Palestinian people, and the Labour Party has a strong track record of showing solidarity with the Palestinian people. We want to see that level of support reflected in Irish Government policies. It has been well over a year and a half since the Dáil voted to condemn the de facto annexation of Palestinian land by the Israeli state.

"The Occupied Territories Bill, which would ban the import of goods from illegal settlements, has passed through both Houses but despite receiving support from Fianna Fáil and the Greens, it has yet to be enacted by Government. It is long past the time that the Government moved on this – the Bill must become law without further delay. Ireland has a rich history of standing up against oppression. We must lead now in showing solidarity with those experiencing it today.”