Missile strikes in the region were sparked by a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran
The damage at an impact site after US and Israeli strikes on Tehran, Iran, on February 28(Image: UGC/UNKNOWN/AFP via Getty Images)
Anti-war activists in Belfast are planning an emergency rally calling for an end to the bombing of Iran.
The ‘Stop Bombing Iran’ rally will take place on Monday, March 2, at 6pm at Belfast City Hall. Speakers will include human rights activists, trade unionists, and academics.
It comes as missile strikes continue to rock the region, sparked by a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran. Iran has retaliated with missile attacks on US bases in the Middle East.
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Speaking in support of the rally, Gerry Carroll MLA said: “This bloodthirsty, unprovoked attack on Iran is an alarming escalation of US imperial aggression, and a further step towards fulfilling Israel’s decades-long dream of imperial domination in the region.
“The death and destruction set to follow will be catastrophic. People across the world are sick of endless imperial wars and violence, and the false pretences used to justify bloodshed.
“I encourage everyone who is rightly appalled by the behaviour of these two rogue states to attend this emergency rally, and send a clear message to the US and Israel – stop bombing Iran!”
After the strikes, the Foreign Office warned against all travel to Israel while embassies in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE have advised British nationals to shelter in place.
Northern Ireland’s Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly expressed concern for the safety of locals living in the region.
She posted on X: “I will be receiving a security briefing on the situation in Iran and impacts in the Middle East as dep First Minister this afternoon from the UK Government and their team.
“I will also be raising the safety and the advice for those from Northern Ireland living, working or visiting the region – and also for those who may be due to travel to the region in the next few weeks.”
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP also expressed concern about developments and called for calm.
She said: “I am deeply alarmed by the escalating military confrontation between Israel and Iran, including devastating reports that an airstrike has hit a school in southern Iran, killing dozens of children.
“I am also concerned by reports that UK military aircraft are in the skies over or near Iran.
“The UK must urgently push for de-escalation, press for an immediate ceasefire, and work with international partners to prevent a wider war. Diplomacy, not further military action, must be the focus.”
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