South and East Belfast Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Gaza attacks must stop immediately

Published: 1 January, 2009

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey, speaking on the sixth day of intensive air strikes of the Gaza Strip by Israel, has called for solidarity with the people of Gaza. The air strikes have killed over 360 people and injured 1,400.


The South Belfast MLA said,

"People in Belfast and throughout Ireland, indeed right across the world, have been horrified by the events in Gaza; particularly as they occur during this time of the year when the thoughts of millions of people are focused on the Holy Land.


"Like many others we have been shocked and appalled at the scale of the Israeli attack on Gaza and its impact on that community. The people of Gaza have endured enough with the complete closure of the area, with only limited humanitarian aid being allowed in by Israeli forces, without this latest series of attacks adding to their plight.


"Israel needs to immediately pull back it forces from the borders of Gaza and end these attacks. I would urge all those with influence in the region to accept inclusive dialogue and political negotiation as the most effective pathway to peace and for all acts of military aggression to end".

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