The Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) expresses its deepest condolences to all affected by the harrowing violence in Israel and Gaza, particularly to those who have tragically lost loved ones.
We support the United Nations and international human rights organisations in their critical efforts to deliver urgent supplies to the people of Gaza and to secure the release of hostages.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reports that educational institutions have been destroyed as a result of bombardments, depriving students and their teachers and lecturers access to safe learning and teaching. We join Education International, United Nations agencies and human rights organisations in condemning this disproportionate and indiscriminate use of force, wherein civilian populations and buildings have been subject to direct targeting.
A ceasefire must be declared and a humanitarian corridor immediately established.
We express unwavering solidarity with the teachers, lecturers, students, and communities across the affected region, and we implore all parties to cease the cycle of violence, to stand back from any further escalation, to respect international law and to engage in meaningful dialogue to create a lasting peace that seeks to protect the future of the region’s children.