Israel's UN ambassador, Gilad Erdan, wore a yellow star, a Holocaust-era symbol, during his address to the Security Council. He condemned the council for staying silent on Hamas' attacks against Israel and pledged to wear the badge until the body condemns Hamas. Erdan stated that some members of the UN have forgotten why the body was established. He compared the yellow star to the one that Jews were forced to wear by the Nazis and said that he and his team will wear yellow stars to remind the UN of the atrocities against Jews. The UN General Assembly recently adopted a nonbinding resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian truce but did not mention Hamas. During the Security Council meeting, speakers denounced the Hamas attacks but also highlighted the suffering of Gaza residents, who have faced collective punishment due to the siege of Gaza.
Fifteen years ago, Gerry Adams led a Sinn Féin delegation to the occupied Palestinian territories, where they witnessed the aftermath of Israel's assault on Gaza. Adams describes the devastation caused by Israeli forces, including the destruction of hospitals and the deliberate starvation of the Gazan population. He references a scathing report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, who accuses Israel of committing acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. Adams criticizes the Irish government for its lack of concrete action in response to the crisis and calls for immediate measures, including enacting divestment bills, implementing an arms embargo on Israel, and recognizing the state of Palestine. He also highlights the importance of solidarity with the Palestinian people and the need for Ireland's freedom to be connected to the freedom of Palestinians. Adams mentions the fifth anniversary of Áras Uí Chonghaile, the James Connolly Visitor Centre, which celebrates the life and legacy of James Connolly and hosts events and exhibitions related to Irish history and workers' rights. The centre has welcomed thousands of visitors and received support from trade unions, including those in North America.
In a separate development, Justice Minister Helen McEntee addressed the Irish ambassador being shown videos of Hamas attacks. The incident occurred on May 24, 2024. McEntee discusses a new Garda insurance tool to identify uninsured drivers and emphasizes the importance of road safety. [3a87e34b]