European Parliament Member Protests with QR Code T-Shirt, Citing Palestinian Losses in Gaza and Lebanon
Criticizing Double Standards and Hypocrisy
An Italian member of the European Parliament (EP) made a bold statement during a parliamentary session in Brussels on Tuesday, wearing a QR code t-shirt displaying the numbers, names, and ages of Palestinians killed in what he referred to as ‘Israel’s genocide’ in the Gaza Strip. By doing so, he aimed to condemn the European Union’s (EU) lack of action in addressing the situation.
EU’s Inaction Condemned
Della Valle, a newly-elected member of the EP, spoke from the podium, stating, "Once again, the majority of this parliament demonstrates its double standards and complicity to the world." He pointed out that Israel’s targeting of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has not been condemned by the EU, only expressions of concern have been issued.
Adding Fuel to the Fire
He continued, "Thus, the losses in Gaza are now compounded by those in Lebanon. Now, we also have UNIFIL and our Italian soldiers being targeted. What will it take for the EU to put an end to double standards and hypocrisy and stand by the UN?" This statement highlights the growing concern among some members of the EP regarding the EU’s approach to the conflict in the Middle East.
A Powerhouse of Information
The QR code on Della Valle’s t-shirt directs users to the visualisingpalestine.org website, which shows the devastating toll of the conflict. The site indicates that ‘34,344 Palestinians have been killed between October 7, 2023, and August 31, 2024.’ Upon clicking on the human figures on the page, users can access the names, genders, and ages of the deceased.
Controversy Ensues
Another EP member filed a complaint with the session chair against Della Valle, accusing him of violating the rules by wearing the t-shirt during the session.
Conclusion
Della Valle’s bold statement has sparked controversy and debate within the European Parliament, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding the EU’s approach to the situation in the Middle East. The use of the QR code and the online platform provides a powerful way to share the devastating impact of the conflict, emphasizing the need for action and accountability.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the QR code t-shirt worn by Della Valle?
A: The QR code directs users to a website showcasing the numbers, names, and ages of Palestinians killed in the conflict in the Gaza Strip.
Q: Why did Della Valle wear the t-shirt during the parliamentary session?
A: To draw attention to the lack of action by the EU and to condemn the Israeli targeting of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Q: Who can access the information on the visualisingpalestine.org website?
A: Anyone can access the website by scanning the QR code on Della Valle’s t-shirt, which provides the numbers, names, and ages of the deceased.