Rafah Killings

international | anti-war / imperialism | press release Thursday May 20, 2004 15:39 by Caoimhe Butterly, Tim Hourigan - AWI 087-2134160 , 087-9777703

More Middle East Crimes

Members of Anti War Ireland are disgusted and outraged at the recent killings in Palestine and Iraq, not just at the killings themselves, but also at the ongoing list of abuses of human rights in the Middle East, especially the most basic right to life. We are outraged also at the lack of effective action by the UN and the international community.

Thursday May 22nd 2004.
-PRESS RELEASE-

Anti-War Ireland condemns the murderous actions of the Israeli military in Rafah. Palestinians who were protesting against the illegal demolition of people's homes were killed by Israeli missile and tank attacks in the latest escalation in the Gaza strip.
"Today is not a day in isolation" said AWI spokesperson, Caoimhe Butterly, "it is part of the Israeli government's blatant disregard for human life in Gaza and the West Bank. Palestinians lose their homes and their lives with little or no reaction from the international community"
Similar murders and demolitions at the Jenin refugee camp in 2002 brought international condemnation and some naïve hope that Israel would not repeat such actions.
Israel is in blatant violation of International Law,the Geneva Convention and UN resolutions, yet there is a vacuum of international pressure to make Israel act lawfully and humanely.
Powerful leaders who talk of peace, like George Bush issue limp responses, continuing to support Ariel Sharon while "urging restraint".
AWI calls on the Irish Government, now holding EU presidency to strongly condemn the actions of the Israeli government, to support economic sanctions against Israel and to end Ireland's multi-million euro arms trade with Israel.
There will be a demonstration today (Thursday 20th May) from 5-7pm at the Israeli Embassy in Dublin to oppose the occupation of Palestine.
-ENDS-
Contact
Caoimhe Butterly
087-2134160
Tim Hourigan
087-9777703