Sinn Féin spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire TD, has given a cautious welcome to the announcement of a ceasefire between the United States and Iran.
Deputy Ó Laoghaire stated that if a ceasefire holds, it is a positive thing but that it has to lead to meaningful negotiations
Teachta Ó Laoghaire said, “A ceasefire, if it holds, is what the world and the ordinary people of the region have hoped for. This war, instigated by the US and Israel, has so far resulted in the deaths of 3,500 people, the spread of conflict to other countries, regional chaos and global energy price inflation. It has been disastrous and pursued without logic or rationale.
“It is the ordinary people of Iran, Lebanon, and civilians across the region, who have borne the cost of this suffering.
“I hope now that space can be created for genuine dialogue, in the interests of ending this war. Too often attempts at dialogue have been undermined, and indeed the conflict began after reportedly productive talks hosted by Oman were derailed by US and Israeli governments, determined to provoke a war.
“But it cannot be ignored that Israel’s illegal invasion of Lebanon now continues unabated. Recent days have seen continued attacks on cities such as Tyre, and the war has resulted in the deaths of some 1,500 in recent days.
“The invasion of Lebanon indicates a similar strategy on the part of Israel as in Gaza. This is contrary to all international law. The international community cannot continue to avert its eyes, it must apply pressure and the Irish Government should show leadership on this, with particular regard to the EU-Israel Association Agreement, which must be suspended.
“In this context, we extend our solidarity to the UNIFIL mission and in particular the Irish personnel there.
“If meaningful talks can be established regarding the war in Iran then it must work towards an outcome that respects deescalates tensions in the region, that steps back from further conflict, that respects the sovereignty of Iran, that ensures the safety of neighbouring countries and that ensures the democratic and civil rights of Iranians.
“If a ceasefire is to hold, then it must lead to meaningful talks – dialogue and de-escalation is key.”
