Eastwood voices support for Israel Arms Trade Prohibition Bill

israel columeastwood armssales

SDLP Leader and MP for Foyle Colum Eastwood has signed an Early Day Motion in Parliament in support of ending UK arms sales to Israel due to Israel's militarised repression of Palestinians and violations of international law.

Colum Eastwood MP said:

"Several years ago, I travelled to Gaza and have seen first-hand the horror that bullets, bombs and missiles can have on the lives of people living there.

"Earlier this year, the people of Derry watched in horror at the scenes of violence and forced eviction of Palestinian families in Sheikh Jarrah, Silwan and across East Jerusalem. I have had many people contact me with their concerns about the footage of aerial bombardments from the Israeli Air Force, which killed innocent people.

"The killing of innocent civilians is an affront to international law and must be treated with the gravity it deserves. While the international community exerted little pressure on Israel to halt its incursions, Britain now has a choice in whether or not it plays its part in aiding in the militarised repression of the Palestinian people by Israel and end its arms sales.

"I will always stand in support of rights for Palestinians and oppressed peoples around the world, and I look forward to reading and engaging in the debate when this Bill comes before the House of Commons at the end of the year.

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