Taking to social media, Labour MP Omar Farrugia issued his position, and a response to that of Roberta Metsola and Ursula von Der Leyen, when it comes to the conflict in Israel and Gaza.
Farrugia, whilst condemning the Hamas attack, also highlighted how the blood being spilt in Gaza should acquire the same condemnation.
‘People forced to leave their homes, parents and children dying, families separated – in a place that has been under siege for years now and is currently being bombarded.
‘The European Union had its chance to be the voice of peace and compromise. Instead, we sought photos and poses. We looked to side only with one side, even when we knew that retaliation meant more death and destruction.’
Addressing Metsola, Farrugia said that the EU has no power or mandate, from Malta or elsewhere, to give their support to Israel’s offensive. The EU, he said, should be attempting to bring the two sides to the table and stop the fighting immediately.
‘Not trying to paint a pretty picture of revenge by Israel on innocent people. Nothing good comes out of a war. No violence on innocent lives is justifiable. This is what our representatives in the EU should be saying and working for.’
This comes after EP President Metsola, along with Commission president von der Leyen visited Israel to show their support following the attacks.
In a speech addressed to the plenary, Metsola condemned the mass murder, kidnappings, rapes, torture and mutilations carried out by Hamas.
‘Even in the darkest of times, our Parliament has always and will always push for a fair two-state solution that is equitable and just. We will always push for a sustainable and lasting peace. I said this in the Knesset and in Ramallah when I visited President Abbas last year and it bears repeating now. Sadly, the vile actions of Hamas terrorists have pushed this prospect further away,’ said Metsola.
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‘Our focus must remain on ensuring that the hostages kidnapped are released unconditionally, that humanitarian aid reaches those in need, that civilians are not targeted, that safe corridors are maintained, and that we keep engaging with the legitimate representatives of the Palestinian people and regional actors to de-escalate tensions in the region and neighbouring areas.’
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