Saudi regime backing jihadists and Bahrain repression praised by Taoiseach for its 'moderation'

» Mark Moloney

'The Taoiseach's comments will do little to advance the cause of democracy, human rights and peace in region, and leave many wondering whether this is the Irish Government’s official position, or an Enda Kenny solo run'

TAOISEACH Enda Kenny has praised the ruling Saudi regime for its "leadership in terms of moderation" despite the kingdom's appalling human rights record, recent help in crushing pro-democracy protests in Bahrain and support for jihadists waging brutal sectarian campaigns against civilians in Syria, Iraq and Lebanon.

Sinn Féin  Foreign Affairs spokesperson Seán Crowe TD said many human rights activists in the region will be taken aback by the Taoiseach's comments which totally disregard the facts on the ground:

"Notwithstanding its own dreadful domestic human rights and democratic record, Saudi Arabia has long been a negative, rather than a stabilising force, in the region."

Kenny made the controversial comments as he took part in an Irish trade mission to the Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh, where he met Crown Prince Salman and other high ranking government and business leaders. He also praised the kingdom's "desire for a peaceful situation" in the Gulf region and congratulated the regime on its selection to the UN Human Rights Council.

An Irish Government spokesperson refused to say whether the Taoiseach had, or would, raise the country's appalling human rights record during the trip.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have been the main financial and military backers of jihadist groups operating in Syria. Most notable of these is the Army of Islam (JAI), which recently massacred almost 100 civilians – including entire families – in the town of Adra, near Damascus.

The Saudi monarchy also sent more than 1,000 troops into neighbouring Bahrain to help its sectarian ruling regime crush popular pro-democracy protests which began in 2011.

Seán Crowe said:

"The Taoiseach's comments will do little to advance the cause of democracy, human rights and peace in the region and leave many wondering whether this is the Irish Government’s official position or an Enda Kenny solo run."