Anti-war group seeks boycott of Israeli goods

THE Israeli bombardment of Lebanon and Palestine continues unabated, and it appears that more than 1,000 people have already died. Of these, the vast majority are civilians, men, women and many children.

It is important that voices are raised internationally against this slaughter. Here in Ireland we need to be clear in our condemnation of Israeli belligerence, but Anti-War Ireland believes we must move beyond simple condemnation.

In particular, we believe trade unionists and labour activists should not be afraid to act in solidarity with those under attack.

It is ordinary workers and their families who are suffering in Lebanon and Palestine, and the international labour movement must play an active role in opposing US-backed Israeli military aggression.

Anti-War Ireland asks those opposed to this ongoing mass slaughter of civilians to participate in the solidarity events that are being organised throughout the country.

We are also calling for a general boycott of Israeli goods for as long as Israel continues to oppress and kill the people of Palestine and Lebanon.

We believe Irish workers should extend tangible solidarity and support to the people of Palestine and Lebanon by arguing for, and participating in, workplace boycotts of Israeli products.

Anti-War Ireland calls on trade union activists to raise the issues of Palestine and Lebanon at their local trades councils and at their union branches, and to put forward motions in opposition to Israeli aggression and in favour of a concerted boycott of Israeli goods.

An injury to one is an injury to all. This trade union principle should be implemented in our efforts to end the slaughter currently taking place in the Middle East.

Fintan Lane

Anti-War Ireland

Palmer’s Glade

Dublin 20