A Shift in International Response to the Gaza Conflict?

Strategic Insights -

The Dail last week witnessed powerful contributions on the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, with TD Liam Quaide describing Israel's actions as "evil." The Israeli government has been accused of barbarism, with President Yair Golan condemning its actions as "fighting against civilians" and "killing babies as a hobby." The international community is finally beginning to take notice, with a review of the European Union's cooperation deal with Israel set to be carried out, and potential sanctions on the horizon.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 52,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict, with 14,000 babies at risk of dying unless aid reaches them.
  • TD Liam Quaide described Israel's actions as "evil," saying if what is happening in Gaza is not evil, then what is?
  • Israeli ministers have spoken of efforts to "purify" Gaza, and aid lorries have been denied entry to the Strip while people starve to death.
  • The European Union's cooperation deal with Israel is set to be reviewed, with potential sanctions on the horizon.
  • A joint statement from France, Canada, and the UK condemned the "intolerable" humanitarian situation and called on Israel to halt its intensified ground assaults and air strikes.
  • Irish politicians have taken a strong stance against Israel's actions, with Simon Harris describing what is happening as "genocidal activity."
  • The Irish government is due to consider the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill, which would ban trade with illegal Israeli settlements in Palestine and other occupied territories.

Statistics:

  • Over 52,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict.
  • 14,000 babies are at risk of dying unless aid reaches them.
  • 17 countries voted in favor of a review of the European Union's cooperation deal with Israel, while 10 were against.
  • Three months ago, four Irish Aid lorries carrying aid for thousands of people were stuck in Jordan due to Israel's blockade.

Sources:

  • Irish Times: "Bezalel Smotrich, the Israeli finance minister, spoke openly of conquering Gaza, destroying all that remained of the Strip and pushing the population south."
  • Irish Times: "Simon Harris, the tanaiste, described what is going on as 'genocidal activity'."
  • Irish Times: "The Dutch government has proposed a review of the European Union's cooperation deal with Israel."
  • Reuters: "France, Canada and the UK issue joint statement condemning Gaza violence."
  • Irish Times: "Ireland and Spain had called for a review of the European Union's cooperation deal with Israel over a year ago."