President Michael D. Higgins recently characterized the current food and humanitarian distribution system in Gaza as “bogus.” His remarks come amid escalating international calls for Israel to halt its ongoing military operations in Gaza, which were ignited by the unprecedented Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.
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The scrutiny surrounding the humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza has intensified, particularly after Israel blocked assistance for over two months before permitting a limited number of UN vehicles to enter the area in mid-May. However, the United Nations has emphasized that this effort falls short of addressing the critical humanitarian needs of the population.
In spite of harsh criticism from humanitarian organizations, including the UN, aid distribution efforts resumed last week. Unfortunately, these operations were halted yesterday when the Israeli army declared that routes leading to distribution centers are now “considered combat zones.”
During a heartfelt address in Galway commemorating the 25th anniversary of Terryland Forest Park, President Higgins underscored the connection between green open spaces and the dire situation in Gaza. He stated, “The ‘bogus’ humanitarian distribution sector of Gaza is now ‘regarded as a zone of conflict.'” He elaborated on the gravity of the situation, noting, “Before the conflict, it had the densest population on the planet—5,500 people per square kilometer. Now, after all the displacements, it’s a staggering 30,000 people per square kilometer, forced together. Only 8% of the land could potentially be used for food next year.”
Highlighting the tragic moral implications, he added, “This dispossession, this action, the idea that a ‘bogus’ humanitarian distribution sector is now regarded as a zone of conflict demands that we confront a grave moral failure.” He poignantly posed the question, “Will you risk your life for your children, or will you go without bread?” He concluded, “Those who claim this is inherent to our nature contradict the very definition of humanity.”
In a related note, President Higgins mentioned the recent UN Security Council vote, in which 14 out of 15 members supported an immediate, conditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution was ultimately vetoed by the United States, which argued that it undermined ongoing diplomatic efforts. President Higgins expressed concern, stating, “We are now in a very dangerous, uncontrolled place where you can say anything. You can threaten to limit people’s rights to move or access food. The UN General Assembly has the right, under the principle of ‘Uniting for Peace’, to take initiatives that can overrule the Security Council.” He emphasized, “When you sign international law, you embrace the duty of implementation; I will engage in discussions on this matter in the coming week.”
Tánaiste Simon Harris echoed this sentiment, describing the failure to pass the resolution as “deeply disappointing.” He asserted, “Israel must cease blocking aid to the people of Gaza. Ireland strongly supports the resolution’s call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages. It is clear that a majority of UN members are united in a desire to end the current suffering, and Ireland will work diligently with partners to address the catastrophic situation in Gaza.”
Meanwhile, President Higgins discussed Trinity College’s recent decision to sever ties with Israeli organizations, asserting the choice was made after thoughtful consideration of all relevant issues. “This began with student action, but Trinity has made its decision and plans to implement it,” he said. “It’s important to contextualize this amidst what is happening in the US, where even the most prestigious universities face challenges. Their decision, while practical, was rooted in idealism and reflects careful deliberation throughout the decision-making process.”
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
