St. Patrick’s Day Diplomacy: President Biden’s Stance on Israel-Hamas War Ruffles Feathers in Ireland
White House Traditions on St. Patrick’s Day
This St. Patrick’s Day will see all of the customary White House traditions: Green ties will be worn, grip-and-grin photo opportunities between diplomats will be had, and a bowl of shamrocks will be presented to President Biden by Ireland’s leader, Leo Varadkar, as he visits the White House before a traditional lunch with congressional leaders Friday.
Diplomatic Discussions Amid the Festivities
But amid the pomp and pageantry to mark St. Patrick’s Day, which is on Sunday, the diplomatic discussions at this year’s festivities may have a certain edge to them, as public fury rises in Ireland over President Biden’s stance on the Israel-Hamas war. There will be pressure on the Irish delegation from their constituents and elected officials back at home to call out what they see as American complicity in the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians.
Varadkar’s Push for Ceasefire and Two-State Solution
Varadkar, Ireland’s prime minister, has spent the week in the U.S. and, while he’s been quick to compliment Mr. Biden and his administration, Varadkar has also been assertive in pushing Ireland’s position when it comes to the war in Gaza. He praised Vice President Kamala Harris for her leadership in advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and expressed support for the United States’ efforts to bring about a resolution. However, Varadkar called for a permanent ceasefire, while Mr. Biden supports a temporary ceasefire as part of a hostage deal.
The Disappointing Shift in Irish Perception of the U.S. President
The war in Gaza has drastically changed the Irish public’s perception of President Biden, who was warmly welcomed during his visit to Ireland last year. The Irish people, who have a historical and cultural sympathy for the Palestinian cause, feel that the U.S. is turning a blind eye to the suffering of Palestinians and prioritizing its relationship with Israel.
Demand for Ceasefire and Opposition to U.S. Middle East Policy
The war in Gaza has led to widespread public outrage in Ireland, with thousands of Irish people participating in demonstrations across the country to demand an immediate ceasefire. Politicians have also voiced their disapproval, with some boycotting the traditional St. Patrick’s Day event at the White House. Irish leaders, such as Colum Eastwood, have criticized the U.S. for providing weaponry to Israel while innocent lives are being lost in Gaza.
Ireland’s Continued Support for Palestinians
Ireland has not only continued its funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which provides crucial humanitarian aid to Palestinians, but also pledged an additional $22 million in funding. Irish President Michael Higgins condemned other countries’ decision to suspend funding for UNRWA, calling it a “scandalous travesty” and urging them to recognize the humanitarian crisis
