South Derry sends solidarity to the people of Gaza

Sinn Féin MLA Emma Sheerin has reiterated the support from the people of South Derry for the Palestinian population following a well-attended vigil that was organised in Ballinascreen on Wednesday evening past.

Speaking in the wake of the vigil, which was a solemn but dignified event, the South Derry rep commented on the strength of feeling locally regarding the current war that is being raged across Israel/Palestine.

"With just a few days’ notice on social media, over 100 people turned out on Wednesday evening, during a storm, to show their solidarity with the people of Gaza. The loss of life that we have seen over the past two weeks in Israel/Palestine has shocked and saddened everyone, and we are all calling for an immediate ceasefire," said Ms Sheerin.

"People are angry at the actions of the Israeli state and how their propaganda machine has operated throughout this latest phase of conflict, coming as it does after 75 years of the occupation of Palestine. Israel has been consistently carrying out war crimes and is being facilitated by many of the Western powers.

"We know from our own experience in Ireland that international solidarity is incredibly important, and that pressure from global powers is often instrumental in resolving conflict and ending human rights abuses. That is why we wanted to stand with the people of Gaza and send them our support at this time.

"We need to see international powers demanding a ceasefire, as well as an instant resumption of aid, fuel and water into the Gaza strip. What is currently happening cannot be endured any longer."