In a joint statement, Public Services International and the European Federation of Public Service Unions expressed particular concern at reports of hospitals and emergency services being over-stretched and unable to cope with the high number of casualties. “The European Union, UN Security Council and international community must step up their efforts to ensure a ceasefire,” it said.

The two organisations said a democratic, inclusive and non-sectarian solution to the ongoing conflict had to recognise the fundamental rights of Palestinians, including refugees, and include an immediate end to the Gaza blockade and Israel’s illegal settlements.

Meanwhile, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions has called on the Irish Government to summon the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland and demand that Israel ceases its bombardment of Gaza.  The Irish Palestinian Solidarity Campaign, which is supported by ICTU, has organised a demonstration in Dublin tomorrow (Saturday). It will start at 2pm at the Spire in O’Connell Street and march to the Israeli embassy.