The Aftermath of War in Gaza: A Call for Accountability
When the war in Gaza eventually ends, it will become clear that the 61,000 reported deaths so far represent only a fraction of the true toll. Many more lives have been lost under the rubble or could not reach hospitals to be counted. As the dust settles, the world will face pressing questions about the failure of international institutions and governments to act.
Why did the United Nations and International Court of Justice allow a famine to develop after four months of Israel blocking food, medicine, and fuel into Gaza, when they could have forced aid through under Article 7 of the UN Charter? Why did the global community fail to stop Israel’s war crimes when the first hospital was shelled, allowing all 36 hospitals to be repeatedly bombed?
The media also played a role in shaping public perception. Why did the world’s media accept a ban on journalists reporting from inside Gaza, and why did RTÉ continue referring to the “Hamas-controlled” health ministry long after other outlets like CNN and Channel 4 abandoned the term? These choices influenced how the conflict was portrayed globally.
Western governments, including Ireland’s, were slow to sanction Israel despite widespread protests around the world. Why did decent people remain silent in the face of Israeli actions against children and families in Gaza, fearing criticism might label them as antisemitic—a claim refuted by many Jewish critics of Israel?
Even as Ireland publicly criticized the war, US warplanes were welcomed at Shannon Airport, with refueling operations continuing despite vocal opposition. How could this happen? Additionally, Ireland’s Central Bank facilitated the sale of Israeli war bonds in the EU, contributing at least €418 million to Israel’s war economy.
For 21 months, the world stood by while war crimes such as bombing civilians, starving them, and forcing population transfers occurred before our eyes. This is a genocide in plain sight.
A Global Movement for Change
Bells are now ringing for Benjamin Netanyahu as pressure mounts on Israel. Some believe that public demonstrations, such as ringing bells across the country, could serve as a powerful protest against the ongoing war in Gaza, which many view as a genocide. This form of collective action could not be ignored by leaders like Netanyahu.
Rising Costs of Education
Parents of schoolchildren are increasingly concerned about the financial burden of returning to school. A survey by Barnardos found that one-third of secondary school parents find the costs unmanageable. From uniforms and books to technology and extracurricular activities, the expenses add up quickly. Some schools still use Chromebooks instead of tablets, making it even more challenging for families.
Administrative fees, locker charges, and the need for new bags and supplies further strain household budgets. With children growing rapidly, the cost of replacing uniforms and other essentials becomes a recurring challenge. Parents face immense pressure to meet these demands, often sacrificing their own needs to ensure their children have what they need.
Protecting Endangered Wildlife
The Dead Zoo, now housed in the National Museum, reminds us of the importance of protecting endangered wildlife. While the collection is fascinating, it also highlights the loss of species that once roamed freely. The museum displays creatures like tigers and lions, but it is a stark reminder of what has been lost.
Efforts to protect wildlife, such as the white-tailed eagle and the badger, continue to face challenges. Despite legal protections, these animals are still hunted or poisoned due to misconceptions about their role in the ecosystem. Similarly, the native hare, unique to Ireland, has seen a significant decline, yet licenses for coursing remain in place.
As the biodiversity crisis worsens, politicians must resist the influence of powerful interest groups and prioritize conservation efforts.
Remembering the Past to Prevent Future Tragedies
It has been 80 years since atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leaving countless civilians, including children, devastated. Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum serves as a sobering reminder of the horrors of war. Despite this, threats of nuclear warfare persist, with figures like Putin hinting at the possibility of using such weapons again.
The saying, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” holds true. Ignoring history and making threats can lead to evil outcomes.
The Passage of Time
Is it just me, or does time seem to pass faster during the summer? We may not feel it until Christmas, but the days do fly by. Whether it’s the rhythm of summer or the approach of the holidays, the passage of time is always a topic of reflection.
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