Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill have announced they will not attend the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at the White House. This decision comes in response to President Donald Trump’s recent proposal advocating for the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. Traditionally, Irish leaders use these events to strengthen diplomatic ties with the United States; however, McDonald and O’Neill have chosen to abstain this year as a form of protest.
McDonald expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that she has “listened in horror to calls from the President of the United States for the mass expulsion of the Palestinian people from their homes.” She emphasized that such actions represent a “fundamental breach of international law” and are “deeply destabilizing in the Middle East.” O’Neill echoed these sentiments, highlighting the “heartbreak and devastation” experienced in Palestine and asserting that the president’s comments “cannot be ignored.”
Despite the boycott by Sinn Féin leaders, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin plans to attend the White House events. Martin underscores the importance of maintaining strong Ireland-U.S. relations, particularly in areas of trade and geopolitical collaboration. He acknowledges the differing perspectives within Ireland regarding the U.S. administration’s policies but believes that engagement remains crucial for Ireland’s national interests.
While Sinn Féin leaders claim their boycott is a stand for human rights, refusing to engage with the U.S. does little to advance meaningful dialogue. Ireland seeks to benefit from maintaining close ties with the U.S., and isolating key allies over policy disputes weakens future opportunities for cooperation and influence.
