Statement by President Higgins following recovery of bodies of six hostages in Gaza

Statement by President Higgins following recovery of bodies of six hostages in Gaza

Date: Sun 1st Sep, 2024 | 14:43

"As images appear in the media of the six hostages whose bodies have been recovered in Gaza, one's heart can only go out to their families who now have to carry what must be an unbearable grief in addition to the agony which they have faced since their abduction eleven months ago.

All of this killing must stop. Piling the dead upon the dead is a hopeless strategy when what is needed is an engagement with current and long neglected issues that will enable life to be made possible for all in the region.

As the international community looks on, they must insist that it is time for all remaining hostages to be released by Hamas, for an immediate ceasefire, for a serious exchange of prisoners to take place, and for all necessary aid to be provided to those who need it."