Andrews condemns presence of controversial Israeli lawmaker in European Parliament  

Barry Andrews, Fianna Fáil MEP for Dublin, has strongly condemned the presence of Israeli MP Amit Halevi at an event in the European Parliament last Wednesday. 

Andrews, along with 35 other MEPs in the European Parliament, signed a letter accusing Mr Halevi of “dehumanising statements” towards Palestinians and urged EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola to bar him from participating in a conference organised by Dutch MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen.

The signatories of the letter include members from the Socialists and Democrats, Greens/EFA, Renew Europe, and The Left groups. 

“It is completely shocking to me, and a huge number of MEPs, that someone like Amit Halevi can come to speak at the European Parliament without any issues,” MEP Andrewa said. 

“We are talking about someone who claims that the Palestinian people do not exist, that newborn babies are terrorists and that has recently organised a conference in support of besieging and expelling the civilian population of Gaza. 

“I find it particularly jarring due to the fact that at the same Mr. Halevi was speaking, I was chairing a Development committee meeting on the horrific humanitarian situation in Gaza.” 

The discussion on the humanitarian situation in Gaza in the Development committee today included speakers from the Norwegian Refugee Council, Médecins Sans Frontières, UNICEF and the European Commission. 

Mr Andrews said, “What is happening on the ground in Gaza is one of the most pressing humanitarian crises of our time.

“While others may sow division, our focus must remain on constructive dialogue and tangible actions to support vulnerable populations and uphold international humanitarian law. 

“We heard today in the Development committee that aid operations in Gaza face severe access restrictions.

“UNRWA, for example, has been forced to pause aid deliveries through Kerem Shalom, the main crossing point in Gaza, because of the breakdown of civil order.

“Operations have become unworkable at this crossing due to Israeli restrictions on aid, the siege, unsafe routes, and targeted attacks on local police, causing a breakdown in law and order.

“This situation cannot continue, Gaza is on the brink of famine.”