'War is not the natural condition of humanity': Higgins calls for strong efforts to restore Middle East peace

The President said during the war between Israel and Hamas, too many lives have already been lost, particularly those of children

President Michael D Higgins said that at the end of 2023, there must be a reflection as to steps countries can taken to move towards a “lasting and meaningful peace” between Israel and Palestine. Picture: Maxwells

President Michael D Higgins has called for a redoubling of efforts to restore peace in the Middle East, saying that it is “not morally acceptable to be indifferent”.

The President said during the course of the war between Israel and Hamas, which began following the October 7 attack, that too many lives have already been lost, particularly those of children.

Mr Higgins said that at the end of 2023, there must be a reflection as to steps countries can taken to move towards a “lasting and meaningful peace” between Israel and Palestine.

“The awful loss of life which we have witnessed in recent months has led to a broad re-statement of the need for a two-state solution,” Mr Higgins said.

“However, for this to have meaning, there is a need to move beyond a theoretical commitment and for detailed consideration to resume of the specific details of how this can be achieved.

“It is my hope that it will not be long until the international community comes together to commence the serious, crucial negotiations that will be needed in the time ahead.” 

 The President said that “essential elements” of these negotiations that will require international cooperation include the requirement for a Palestinian state to be contiguous, the position of East Jerusalem and air, sea and land sovereignty for Palestine.

Mr Higgins said that such negotiations are more urgent now due to the violence carried out by Hamas on October 7, and the “devastation” caused by Israeli bombings and raids on Gaza as well as ongoing settler violence in the West Bank.

Palestinians inspect the damage of a destroyed house following Israeli airstrikes on Khan Younis, Southern Gaza Strip, Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023. Picture: AP Photo/Mohammed Dahman

On potential avenues towards peace, Mr Higgins suggested that a permanent secretariat – similar to one established during the Northern Ireland peace process – be established to ensure continuity.

“Rather than relying on best-intentioned but sadly short-lived initiatives, a secretariat would allow a basis for continuity and the continual development of texts and ideas,” he added.

The President said that there must now be efforts to restore peace in the region, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages taken by Hamas.

“In order for 2024 to see the beginning of the process of recovery for all those who have been so devastated by the events of recent months, it is incumbent on all nations to redouble their efforts for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and to set about the tasks of achieving a lasting peace, one which can allow the Palestinian people to realise their rights alongside those of a secure Israel,” Mr Higgins said.

Mr Higgins said that “war is not the natural condition of humanity”, insisting that cooperation between nations is.

“We cannot be indifferent as we watch daily the loss of life that is appearing on our screens.

“It is not morally acceptable to be indifferent."