In this episode of the Irish Global Solidarity in 100 Objects podcast, Ciara Regan revisits her 2021 conversation with Kevin Squires of the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign (IPSC).
Their discussion, centred on Irish activism in response to Israel’s 2009 assault on Gaza, remains deeply relevant today. Since 2023, Palestine has endured over 440 days of live-streamed genocide, as civilians continue to suffer the ongoing effects of relentless bombardment, forced displacement, and humanitarian collapse.
The question then, as it is now, remains: What can we do? Kevin recalls the widespread outrage as people witnessed the systematic killing of civilians. Their response took many forms, from mass protests and boycott campaigns to grassroots activism against Israel.
During the 2009 assault, the IPSC published a full-page newspaper advert condemning the attacks—a public declaration of solidarity funded by people determined to take action. The overwhelming response reflected a widespread rejection of Israel’s occupation and violence.
However, activism did not stop there. The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement continued to grow, urging people to boycott Israeli goods, pressure corporations, and demand meaningful government action.
Reflecting on these events, Ciara highlights the emotional impact of long-term activism. While policies and protests often dominate discussions, it is essential to remember that behind every statistic, every attack, and every war crime, there are real people with stories that must not be forgotten.
The genocide against the Palestinian people continues, with mass displacement, starvation, and relentless bombings. Dr Hussam Abu Safiya, a hospital director in Gaza, was abducted and tortured in Israeli detention, alongside hundreds of other medical professionals.
In moments of despair, collective action is our most powerful tool.
As Arundhati Roy reminds us:
“Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing.”
This podcast is a tribute to those murdered and a call to action for renewed solidarity.
Now, more than ever, solidarity, action, and unwavering commitment to justice are needed. If another world is possible, it is up to us to make it so.