SDLP Leader and Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has said that the International community must send a strong and united message to the Israeli government following scenes of violence committed against Palestinian protestors at the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Colum Eastwood MP said:

“Over the past few days, I have watched with horror as Israeli security forces have again violated the rights and dignity of Palestinian people in Jerusalem. The Palestinian Red Crescent has reported more than 300 people injured and over 200 hospitalised as a result of stun grenade deployment against worshippers at the al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites.

“The scenes of violence and the forced eviction of Palestinian families in Sheikh Jarrah, Silwan and across East Jerusalem are an affront to international law. The international community has a moral responsibility to intervene to prevent the oppression of families who have lived in these communities for generations.

“The violence must come to an end immediately to save lives. The British and Irish governments must condemn the violence and join international efforts to restore calm, restraint, and peace in Jerusalem."