Michelle O’Neill urges PM to take harsher stance against Israel

FIRST MINISTER Michelle O’Neill has called for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to impose the ‘strongest possible’ sanctions on Israel.

Last Wednesday, the Tyrone politician issued a statement calling for Mr Starmer and other world leaders to take ‘urgent responsibility’ and ‘serious action’ against Israel’s offensive in Gaza.

The Clonoe woman said she acknowledged the joint-statement issued by the British, French and Canadian governments, but said there was now an ‘urgent responsibility on world leaders to take serious action’.

According to the Press Association (PA), Ms O’Neill said, “We need an immediate and meaningful escalation in political and economic sanctions to pressure Israel to halt its military operations and comply with international humanitarian law.

“The British government must take all necessary action to bring this to an end.

“Under both domestic and international law, the British government has a legal and moral obligation to suspend arms sales when there is a clear risk that such weapons could be used to commit serious violations of international law.

“That threshold has undeniably been crossed.”

The First Minister added, “The British Government must impose the strongest possible political and economic sanctions on Israel while it continues its campaign of terror, horror and war against defenseless citizens.

“Diplomatic condemnation must be matched with decisive action to exert maximum pressure to bring an end to the genocide in Gaza, and ensure accountability for violations of international law.

“I urge you to show leadership, and to take strong and immediate action.

“The world is watching, and the people of Gaza cannot wait any longer.”