The Tánaiste Micheál Martin has passionately spoken out about the need for a “serious de-escalation” in the conflict in the Middle East. He highlighted the devastating impact of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, which he believes is now targeting the entire population, not just Hamas.
Expressing his deep concern on RTÉ’s News At One, Mr Martin emphasized the urgent need for peace and emphasized the moral unacceptability of attacks on civilian infrastructure. He called for an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, and adequate humanitarian aid.
Furthermore, the Tánaiste condemned the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, describing such actions as inflammatory and detrimental to a two-state solution. He supported the consideration of sanctions against those supporting settlements.
Meanwhile, there has been little progress on the EU’s review of its association agreement with Israel. However, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has suggested imposing sanctions on Israeli ministers for promoting actions against international law.
As tensions rise, it remains crucial to address the conflict through a lens of international humanitarian law and the pursuit of a political solution.