SDLP Ballyarnett candidate Rory Farrell
The remarks were made at a rally on Friday at Free Derry Corner to mark the first anniversary of the Great March of Return.
Mr Farrell said: “A year has passed since we witnessed the deaths of nearly 200 Palestinians and the wounding of a further nine thousand by Israeli forces.
“Those killed and injured were protesting against the forced removal of their families from their homes. They were protesting against Israeli aggression and oppression.
“They were protesting against systematic discrimination. They were protesting against indiscriminate attacks by Israeli military on schools, hospitals and other vital infrastructure.
“They were protesting against mass unemployment. They were protesting against the blockade of Gaza.
“And they were protesting against a lack of medical supplies and a lack of clean water. In short, they were killed and maimed for protesting for the civil rights. And we are here tonight protesting with them.
“They were also protesting against Netanyahu and Trump’s cosy relationship.
“A relationship which saw the US administration recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and make plans to move its embassy there. Netanyahu has Trump in his back pocket.
“Just this week the American President caused more anger in the Middle East by recognising Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.
“Although in Syria, this could have far reaching implications for Palestine. This could pave the way for US-sanctioned annexation of large swathes of the West Bank.
“This must be resisted. Palestinians have suffered enough, having their land stolen to accommodate illegal settlements. If Trump and Netanyahu get their way these settlements will become legal overnight.”
Mr Farrell concluded: “Netanyahu has an election to win in a fortnight and Trump is his chief canvasser. Trump cannot be trusted to be an honest broker when it comes to Israel and Palestine.
“The leader of the free world has no interest whatsoever in freedom for Palestine. The international community must intervene.
“No-one in their right mind finds Israel’s behaviour acceptable and no-one in their right mind thinks that it should be tolerated.
“My message to Palestine is: the SDLP stands with you; Derry stands with you; and Ireland stands with you.”
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