The Irish Government should consider proposing a resolution at the next UN General Assembly to authorise a peacekeeping mission in Gaza, according to MEP Maria Walsh.
MEP Walsh is calling on the Government to take additional action on the international stage as the crisis in Gaza continues to deepen, where a UN peacekeeping force is desperately needed.
In the case of a deadlock in the UN Security Council, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) should have the power to authorise peacekeeping operations, if passed by a majority of member states.
Speaking ahead of a debate in the European Parliament on the situation in Gaza, MEP Maria Walsh said:
“Ireland played a leading role in securing a review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement – now we must show the same leadership by pushing for meaningful action at the UN. The Government must consider all possible avenues including looking at putting forward a proposal at the next UN General Assembly meeting, calling for the authorisation of a UN peacekeeping mission in Gaza.
“If Ireland were to propose such a motion, it would require a majority vote to succeed – with no veto power at the UNGA. There should also be no need for approval from the UN Security Council, given the ongoing deadlock.
“While the European Commission’s review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement is welcome, it will take far too long for the people of Gaza to feel any meaningful impact from this decision. Sadly, Palestinians feel no safer today than they did yesterday because of this announcement. People in Gaza continue to face unimaginable pain and a constant threat to their lives.
“The need for a protective force in Gaza is long overdue. We need to see boots on the ground, shielding food convoys, medical supplies and ultimately the lives of innocent people. This is not about mediation – it’s about protection.
“We cannot rest on our laurels at the faintest sign of progress. Instead, Ireland must build on this momentum and continue to push for peace on the international stage. We must continue to do the right thing – even when it is unpopular.”
