Micheal Martin, Ireland’s deputy premier, has labelled Israel’s conduct in Gaza as ‘reckless’ and called for a humanitarian ceasefire, while Holly Cairns criticises Western hypocrisy over the crisis. Ireland explores multiple avenues to support Palestine, amid protests against the Balfour Declaration.
Ireland’s deputy premier, Micheal Martin, has expressed critical views on Israel’s conduct in Gaza, branding it as “reckless” towards civilian lives. He disclosed that Ireland is considering airdrops as a means of aid into the region but stressed the necessity for Israel to facilitate the distribution through on-the-ground corridors and checkpoints. Martin urged for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the initiation of a peace plan, reflecting on the severe circumstances in Gaza.
Amidst the situation, Holly Cairns, the leader of the Social Democrats, accused influential Western nations of moral hypocrisy over Gaza, criticising the normalisation of what she termed mass murder and calling for actions to match the rhetoric against Israel, including legislation to restrict goods from occupied territories and imposing travel restrictions on Israeli settlers.
In light of these criticisms, Martin reiterated Ireland’s support for Palestine, suggesting cessation of arms exports to Israel as a peace measure. He outlined Ireland’s contributions to the UN Relief Agency for Palestinian Refugees and its legal efforts towards the International Court of Justice concerning Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. Furthermore, he highlighted Ireland’s collaboration with European nations in recognising Palestine.
In a related event, a pro-Palestine group vandalised a painting of Lord Balfour at Trinity College, Cambridge, by spraying it with red paint and slashing it, in protest against the Balfour Declaration of 1917 which endorsed the establishment of a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine. This act was meant to symbolise the Palestinian bloodshed since then. Despite the significance of the damaged artwork, no arrests have been reported. The incident reflects the enduring disputes over the Balfour Declaration’s legacy and its implications for Palestinian communities.
