Mayo MEP urges EU to suspend trade cooperation with Israel

Fine Gael's four MEPs are urging the EU to immediately suspend its trade and cooperation agreement with Israel in response to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Palestine.

Seán Kelly, Regina Doherty, Maria Walsh and Nina Carberry said this week's decision to review the agreement was the right one, but is long overdue and more can be done.

A joint statement outlined: "We, along with our Fine Gael party, have long called for a full review of the EU's trade and cooperation with Israel due to the country's disproportionate action in Palestine.

"In view of war crimes such as forced starvation of ordinary people in Gaza, we are calling for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement immediately.

"Food cannot be used as a weapon of war. Children, women and men are starving in Gaza. Gaza is now home to the largest number of child amputees in the world. Aid supplies must reach those in need immediately.

"We fully condemn the actions of the terrorist group Hamas, and urge the safe return of all hostages still held, but ordinary Palestinians should not suffer a collective punishment for the crimes of a terrorist group.

"This week again, we have seen protests by brave Palestinians calling for Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza.

"For too long innocent people have been caught in the crossfire, suffered unimaginable pain, hardship and loss. This should be acceptable to no one.

"Ireland stood almost alone when we first demanded action on Gaza, now the EU is finally catching up.

"This review of the Israel Association Agreement didn’t happen by accident. It happened because we pushed, persisted, and led.

"The review announced by the EU this week is a welcome step in the right direction.

"However, the EU's full diplomatic weight should be used to push for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and end to the aid blockade.

"Sustainable peace will only be possible in the region when human rights and international law are respected."