UPDATE: Belfast City Council has just voted to raise the Palestinian flag over City Hall, a decision made during a heated council meeting on Monday evening. The motion, proposed by Sinn Fein, passed with a narrow margin of 32 votes to 28, signaling a significant political shift in the city.
This urgent development comes in the wake of ongoing violence in Gaza, with Sinn Fein emphasizing the necessity to show solidarity with the Palestinian people. “In the face of Israel’s barbaric and inhumane genocide, we must continue to do all we can to show solidarity with the besieged people of Gaza,” a party statement declared.
The council had previously voted more decisively to fly the Palestinian flag on November 29, aligning with the UN international day of solidarity with the Palestinian people. However, this earlier decision was halted due to legal challenges from unionist factions who sought to reconsider the proposal.
In a special council meeting held earlier today, the decision to raise the flag was met with strong opposition from unionist leaders. DUP group leader Sarah Bunting condemned the swift action, labeling it a “scandalous abuse of process” that disregards the views of many in Belfast. She expressed concern for the local Jewish community, stating, “This is deeply intimidating and risks stoking antisemitism in our city.”
The TUV party’s Councillor Ron McDowell also criticized the council’s decision, asserting it disrespects minority rights and due process. “The only flag that should fly from City Hall is the national flag of the United Kingdom,” he insisted, while accusing Sinn Fein of hypocrisy for previously blocking efforts to light City Hall in the colors of the Israeli flag after the October 7 Hamas attacks.
Sinn Fein’s victory in this vote marks a pivotal moment for Belfast, as the council prepares to raise the Palestinian flag as early as tomorrow. The urgency of this situation reflects broader tensions within the community, as political divisions deepen over the conflict in the Middle East.
As the news spreads, many are left questioning the implications of this decision on community relations in Belfast. The council’s actions are set against a backdrop of rising tensions and emotional responses from various community leaders.
Residents and observers will be watching closely as the flag is scheduled to be raised, with potential legal challenges looming from unionist factions. The outcome of this decision could have lasting effects on the political landscape in Belfast.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and the community responds to the council’s controversial decision.
