Sinn Féin President, Mary Lou McDonald TD, has described as ‘deeply significant’ UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ decision to invoke Article 99 of the UN Charter and call for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.

Ms McDonald said that the European Institutions and the international community must now follow this lead, and be united and unequivocal in calling for an immediate ceasefire to avert further catastrophe.

Teachta McDonald said:  

“This evening’s decision by UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ decision to invoke Article 99 of the UN Charter and call for a humanitarian ceasefire is deeply significant. 

“The European institutions and international community must now join the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to prevent further catastrophe.

“What is happening in Gaza in full view of the world is a humanitarian disaster. The bombardment, the massacre of civilians and children, and mass displacement of an entire population simply cannot be allowed to continue.

“Only a full and unequivocal ceasefire and an end to Israeli hostilities can stop the killing, and create a space to work towards lasting peace in the region.

“The European institutions and international community cannot continue to look the other way. The world must speak with one voice, and that voice must call for an immediate ceasefire.”