The Government should use its influence in the European Union to push for calls for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon and condemnation of Israeli aggression, Muslim groups in Ireland have said.
In a joint statement issued yesterday, representatives of seven Muslim organisations praised the Government for its condemnation of the bombing of Qana last Sunday but said it was "sad to see the EU has failed to make a clear stand on the issue".
"Furthermore, the events show the complete failure of the United Nations as an organisation for peace, security and justice. The UN has instead become the tool to the hands of the aggressors and those supporting them."
The director of the Islamic Cultural Centre in Clonskeagh in Dublin, Dr Nooh al-Kaddo, thanked the Irish people for their support since the current phase of conflict began, but said the Government could do more.
"Their moves have been positive but we are expecting much better. We want to see them push for an immediate ceasefire in the region," he said.