Gaza war protests continue

Gaza war protests continue

8 October 2025

A LARGE crowd gathered in Castlewellan on Sunday for a ‘white line’ protest against Israel’s ongoing war against Gaza.

Among the speakers were Down All-Star Colm McAlarney and former Antrim manager Aidan Thornberry, who called on the GAA to get involved in the protest.

Organisers stressed that the protest was about more than awareness, it was a call for local institutions to take responsibility and for communities to speak out against injustice.

With both the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry and Amnesty International confirming that Israeli military actions legally constitute genocide, the demonstration reflected deep local concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for action.

The protest took place in the wake of two key developments: the interception of a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla by Israeli forces, including at least 16 Irish citizens and the continued bombing of Gaza, despite growing calls for a ceasefire.

The flotilla, made up of over 40 vessels, was carrying vital food, medicine and fuel to civilians trapped by Israel’s blockade, which has been widely condemned as a form of collective punishment.

Since US President Donald Trump publicly urged a pause in airstrikes this week to aid negotiations, at least 36 more people have reportedly been killed in Gaza.