McNulty praises Claire Hanna ‘for speaking truth’ to power on Palestine

SDLP leader Claire Hanna and Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty.

SDLP Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty has praised Claire Hanna “for speaking truth to power”, after the SDLP Leader called on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to recognise the state of Palestine, and implement further sanctions on Israel.

Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty said: “Many of us have the spent the past year looking on in horror at the genocide unfolding in Gaza and the unthinkable loss of civilian life. While we have the luxury of turning off our televisions or closing social media apps, for Palestinians each day is a living nightmare.

“46,000 Palestinians have now needlessly lost their lives. The vast majority of those killed have been women and children. Hospitals and humanitarian zones have been targeted. Aid and supplies have been blocked from entering Gaza. Amidst all of this, there has been an shocking level of equivocation and cowardice on holding the perpetrators to account.

“I am proud that SDLP Leader Claire Hanna has directly challenged the British Government to hold Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Government accountable for their crimes. I believe it is vital that the voices and values of people in the North are heard.

“To stay silent while Palestine burns is unforgiveable. We need to see full sanctions on arms, trade and officials and the recognition of the state of Palestine to provide hope to those living in Gaza under bombardment every single day.”