Sinn Féin spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Matt Carthy TD, has described the Israeli government revoking the visa of United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lynn Hastings, as the actions of a rogue state.

The revocation came following criticism from Ms Hastings of Israel’s ongoing military campaign in the Gaza strip, having stated that ‘nowhere is safe in Gaza and there is nowhere left to go.’

Teachta Carthy said:

“Throughout the duration of this brutal onslaught against the civilian population of Gaza, Israel has shown absolute disdain and disregard for international humanitarian law.

“The same is true of its activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, where forced displacements, attacks on civilian infrastructure and killings have all escalated since October 7th.

“Revoking the visa of the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Lynn Hastings, is the action of a rogue state. Israel is again showing to the international community its disdain and disregard for international law.

“History tells us that Israel will continue to act in this manner until the International community demands that it stop.

“Action must be taken to force a full and permanent ceasefire and a lasting peace process.  Countries like Ireland must show leadership and the Irish government must take measures against Israel.  

“We cannot have preferential trading, economic and diplomatic relationships with a state that ignores international law and which disregards civilian life in the manner Israel has been doing.”