DUBLIN, Nov 3: The Prime Minister of Ireland, Leo Varadkar, has expressed strong criticism of Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip. He described Israel’s actions as “something approaching revenge.” This is one of the harshest criticisms of Israel by a leader of a European Union member state.
Gaza’s health authorities report that at least 9,061 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its military operation in response to attacks by Hamas militants.
Varadkar emphasized that he believes Israel has the right to defend itself and go after Hamas. However, he added that what is currently happening in Gaza seems more like revenge than self-defense. He stated that this approach is not the way to ensure future freedom and security.
When asked if Israel’s actions could be considered war crimes, Varadkar responded that it’s not for him to determine.
While violence has largely been contained so far, tensions have been on the rise in Lebanon since Hamas launched attacks on Israel on October 7, resulting in the deaths of more than 1,400 people.
Lebanon has been closely monitoring Hezbollah’s actions, especially as the group has intensified its attacks on Israel, which has retaliated.
Both sides have taken measures to prevent a dangerous escalation, with most of the strikes being limited to the border area.
However, the situation could change, as Israel continues its ground invasion of Gaza with the aim of eliminating Hamas, and the Palestinian death toll in Gaza surpasses 9,000, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The conflict in Gaza has exposed divisions within the European Union regarding foreign policy. Some EU countries, like France, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and Ireland, have supported calls for a ceasefire in the conflict for humanitarian reasons.
However, others, including Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria, have resisted these calls, arguing that they could limit Israel’s ability to defend itself and allow Hamas to regroup.
Ireland has a history of being critical of Israel’s policies towards Palestinians.
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