Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan has said ceasefires are needed to end the collective punishment and devastating loss of life in Gaza.

And the West Belfast MLA called for the international community and the Irish government to take action as Israel breaches International Law.

Pat Sheehan said:
 
“This week has seen the intensification of the slaughter with thousands more Palestinians killed and injured, most of them women and children.

“The Israelis continue to target hospitals, schools, churches, mosques, refugee camps and family homes, while forcing mass population displacement and cutting off vital supplies of water, food, medicines and fuel.
 
“All of these actions are in breach of international and humanitarian law.

“They are not defensive actions. They are war crimes.

“We call on Israel and its supporters, particularly in the US, to stop this genocide now.

“The Dáil became one of the first parliaments in the world to call for a ceasefire. Followed by an overwhelming vote at the UN General Council demanding such a ceasefire.
 
“Israel continues to defy these calls and that is unacceptable.
 
“The international community and the Irish government must now take action to enforce international law.

“All available diplomatic, legislative and political options must be deployed by the Irish government.

“It is clear the position of the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland is now untenable, the Ambassador should no longer enjoy diplomatic status in Ireland. I say to her ‘pack your bags and go now.’
 
“The Irish people have a long and proud history of standing with the Palestinian people and we send our solidarity today to all those in Gaza City, in Khan Yunis, in Jenin, in Ramallah, in East Jerusalem and throughout the occupied territories.”