“Decisive international intervention is needed in Palestine-Israel escalation” – MacManus

Sinn Féin MEP calls for an immediate ceasefire and urges EU facilitation of Peace Talks

Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus, and member of the European Parliament delegation for relations with Palestine called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza and Israel, and for immediate international intervention.

MacManus said:

“There is no justification for the killing of civilians by anyone. All acts of violence must end immediately. International law must finally be respected and enforced.”

“The escalation we have witnessed in recent days is unacceptable. The loss of innocent civilian life is deplorable.” 

“For years Palestinian communities across the West Bank and Gaza have been in a state of siege. That situation makes conditions almost impossible for a functioning healthy democracy in Palestine, and there is no willingness by Israel to change that. Things must change.”

“There must be an urgent end to hostilities in Gaza and Israel. Sinn Féin are calling for decisive international intervention to bring about a lasting and just solution.”

“It is clear that decisive international intervention is needed. For that to happen we need to see an immediate ceasefire, followed by meaningful dialogue to bring about solutions underpinned by UN resolutions.”

“It is appropriate that MEPs and governments convene at the earliest opportunity to discuss the role that Europe can play to demonstrate leadership and work with the international community towards securing a lasting peace.”

“I believe the EU where possible should be independent brokers of peace. Taking of sides is ill-advised and does not serve to de-escalate the current situation. Dialogue is key. We have a responsibility to pave the way for an immediate ceasefire and an urgent need to bring all sides to the table for emergency talks.”

Given our own history in Ireland, I think we’re in a unique position to offer leadership and seek resolution. With our history of neutrality and peace brokerage, I believe Irish leaders can be the voice of reason and encourage the international community to pursue all avenues of peace and reconciliation”

“Rigorous, impartial international leadership is required, and has been lacking for years as the EU and the European Commission has turned a blind eye to the plight of the Palestinian people. Recent talks of withdrawing aid by Oliver Varhelyi, Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, for Palestinians is entirely unhelpful. Ordinary Palestinians cannot be made to suffer even further hardship because of Hamas’ actions.”

MacManus concluded, “The EU’s role right now must be one of de-escalation. Only when we broker a ceasefire, can we begin mapping the way to a lasting peace.” ENDS