A manifestation in Dublin, endorsing Palestine, has expressed disapproval of U.S. backing for Israel’s military action in Gaza, whilst urging the Irish government to increase its support for Palestinians.
Enormous red flags were displayed around Barnardo Square on Dame Street, symbolising what is regarded by many as US president Joe Biden’s “unrealised red line” in his stance on Rafah, in southern Gaza. This region has seen thousands of Palestinians seeking shelter.
In March, Mr Biden declared that an Israeli invasion of Rafah would signify a “red line” for his administration, but thereafter stated, “but I will never abandon Israel”.
Zoe Lawlor, from the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign, explained that following Mr Biden’s “red line” remark, Israel initiated attacks on the refugee camps, resulting in the deaths of many Palestinians from fires, as well as the destruction of hospitals and the killing of hospital staff.
Protests in Dublin featured chants of “There was never a red line,” with placards denouncing the alleged transit of arms to Israel via Ireland. Other signs stated “Gaza’s condition is more than devastating, it is a crime” and “What level of crime must Israel commit before our government imposes sanctions?”
Aine Hayden, who was distributing leaflets bearing the message “Stop US involvement in Israel’s mass killings in Gaza,” insisted that the purpose of the demonstration was to expose U.S. participation.
She commented, “They are discussing a ceasefire while simultaneously allocating billions to enable the mass murder.”
Among the individuals to whom Ms Hayden offered leaflets were visitors from the US.
She stated, “It would be ideal to increase awareness among Americans, but many of them do seem to be deeply conditioned. I’ve been labelled a terrorist sympathiser by numerous Americans during past rallies.
“The ultimate question is, where is our humanity? It’s all about this. We cannot ignore the daily targeting and killing of these children and infants.”
Des, a Co Wicklow resident who attended a protest with his young son, expressed his dissatisfaction by stating he wished to be “on the right side of history.” He indicated his belief that the current efforts from the United States and even his own government were far from adequate. He voiced his disgust at the ongoing tragedies expressing dismay over the countless innocents losing their lives.
Former RTÉ producer, Betty Purcell, reiterated that Ireland could bolster their efforts considerably through imposing sanctions and endorsing boycotts. She indicated the Taoiseach’s repeated concerns for Palestine, suggesting that he could act more assertively by endorsing the Occupied Territories Bill, the arms embargo Bill, and the Israeli divestment settlements Bill.
Purcell added that such decisive actions from Ireland would send a significant message to both Europe and the US, accentuating Ireland’s determination to contribute meaningfully instead of simply portraying anguish. She stated her belief that such efforts would also influence the US.
Furthermore, Netanyahu’s reluctance to make concessions on the Philadelphi and Netzarim corridors has played a significant role in the reported breakdown of the Gaza ceasefire discussions. The context was expanded as reports of Israeli strikes killing numerous individuals in Gaza led to US President Biden engaging Netanyahu in direct talks.