It’s time the rest of the world confronted Israel

IT is beyond belief that Israel once again has flouted international law by attacking the humanitarian shipments heading for Gaza.

It seems Israel can do what it likes knowing there will not be much of an outcry globally. It is now time for the international community to take a very hard line with Israel.

What other state would be allowed to behave in this way?

Many international observers from inside and outside of the EU were on board the flotilla to add credibility to the mission.

The Israeli ambassador said the aid crews were basically naive to become involved. At the very least he should be expelled from Ireland.

The Palestinian people are destitute. More than 1,300 of them – mostly civilians – were killed last year in the Israeli assault.

To date not one member of the Israeli defence forces has been brought in front of the International War Crimes Tribunal in the Hague.

The Palestinians lack basic medical supplies, shelter and food items. The majority of the population are living a hellish existence below the poverty line.

While several Irish politicians have tried to highlight this, the official line from the EU needs to change. I am ashamed to be an EU citizen.

Siobhán McCarthy

Josselin

Woodleigh Park

Model Farm Road

Cork