Laois Fianna Fáil Portlaoise candidate backs pro-Palestine Peace Walk

A Laois Fianna Fáil local election candidate is among those backing the peace in Palestine march in Portlaoise as the a pause in the war between Israel and Hamas takes place.

The organisers, the Laois branch of the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign, say the peace and solidarity 'emergency rally' is taking place in support of the Palestinian people.

Those taking part are asked to assemble at the new Library at Lower Main Street, Portlaoise at 1 pm on Sunday 26 November. 

Naeem Iqbal is among those encouraging local people to show their support by taking part. Mr Iqbal has been selected by Fianna Fáil to contest the 2024 Laois County Council local election. He is a candidate in the Portlaoise Municipal District.

He has previously been vocal in support of the Palestinians.

"Innocent people will keep on dying on both sides until an international effort is made to deliver a just and sustainable peace.

"The recent attacks of Hamas and counterattacks of Israel have unleashed horror upon innocent people in Israel & Gaza.

"It is the moral & political obligation of the world leaders to chart a way towards a future in which these events can’t be repeated.

"Highly condemnable are those countries who are supporting Israel's bombing, complete blockade of food, water, electricity & medicine and suspension of aid for the innocent people of Gaza. 

"I appreciate the Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland for not supporting the suspension of aid which plays a crucial role in the livelihoods and welfare of Palestinian civilians – currently up to 80% of the Palestinian population is dependent on international assistance for basic human needs," he said in October.

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