European Parliament passes first resolution on Gaza: “Far from perfect, but progress” says Ó Ríordáin MEP
European Parliament passes first resolution on Gaza: “Far from perfect, but progress” says Ó Ríordáin MEP - The Labour Party
Dublin Labour MEP Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has responded to today’s European Parliament resolution on Gaza. Speaking from Strasbourg, he said:
“For the first time since I was elected to the European Parliament, we have finally managed to pass a motion on the genocide in Gaza. This resolution is far from perfect – but it is progress, and that is why I voted in favour.
The report calls for sanctions against Israeli ministers, backs a ban on trade, supports recognition of the Palestinian state, and crucially acknowledges that Israel is causing a man-made famine in Gaza.
But the reality is, much stronger wording was needed. Most glaringly, the Parliament once again failed to call this assault what it truly is: genocide. That language was blocked by right-wing forces in the Parliament – including Fine Gael’s group, the EPP – who have consistently worked to weaken EU action on this issue. Fine Gael must ask themselves how they can continue to stand alongside a political family that refuses to confront Israel’s crimes.
The truth is, the only reason this Parliament has taken even this small step is because of public pressure. Citizens across Europe have forced their representatives to act. It is shamefully late, but perhaps this marks the beginning of real EU action to hold Israel to account.
Now is the moment to push harder – for tougher sanctions against the Israeli Government, for a suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement in full, and for a total arms embargo. Nothing less is credible.”