Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Many of us have seen the most disturbing video clips in recent times of civilians on both sides being killed. Some Israeli citizens have been murdered in clearly sectarian attacks. A greater number of Palestinian civilians have been killed, many of whom have not been directly involved in any attacks. There are also concerns that so many of the attackers, despite lacking firearms, were shot dead rather than captured. I agree with Deputy Crowe that if this spiral of violence is not stopped, these tragedies will continue to mount up. I repeat my clear call for an end to attacks on civilians.

Ireland continues to play a most important role at international level. The EU has stated clearly that all violence against civilians must end and that both sides should avoid any provocation. In addition, the EU has underlined that the lack of any clear political path is clearly exacerbating the sense of hopelessness that may have fuelled some of the recent attacks. I ask the Deputy and other Deputies to read carefully the content of an address by EU High Representative Federica Mogherini following her visit to Israel and Palestine two weeks ago.

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