Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Seán Crowe TD, today met with former Israeli soldier and founder of Breaking the Silence, Yehuda Shaul.

Breaking the Silence is a civil society organisation made up of former Israeli soldiers who highlight human rights abuses committed by Israeli soldiers in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

Breaking the Silence is a partner organisation of Trócaire and Christian Aid, and as part of their advocacy work they hosted Yehuda’s visit to Ireland. They are also hosting a photography exhibition in the Gallery of Photography (Temple Bar) until June 29th.

Deputy Crowe said:

“I want to thank Christian Aid and Trócaire for bringing Yehuda to Ireland. Yehuda’s work for human rights and the end of the occupation of Palestine is extremely important.

“Yehuda made clear in his presentation that Israel’s occupation is a live issue that is negatively affecting millions of Palestinians every day.

“Breaking the Silence collects the testimonies of hundreds of former Israeli soldiers which graphically highlight how brutal the occupation is for Palestinians and how it is based on collective punishment and systematic abuse from the Israeli state.

“This can be seen with the blockade of Gaza, the continued use of administrative detention, continued illegal settlement building, the destruction of Palestinian homes, and in the current military crackdown in the Occupied Territories since the kidnapping of 3 Israeli teenagers.

“Collectively we agreed that Ireland needs to play a more importantly role internationally and within the EU to assist the Palestinians in their struggle for peace, human rights and self-determination.”

ENDS