Irish Taoiseach Michéal Martin’s Visit to the United States - Lessons for Ireland’s Policy on Palestine

In this report, Taoiseach Michéal Martin’s March visit to the United States is examined as a reflection of Ireland’s ongoing struggle to reconcile its rhetorical support for Palestinian rights with its strategic ties to the U.S. Set against the backdrop of St. Patrick’s Day and rising tensions over Trump’s proposed expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza, Martin maintained a cautious, diplomatic tone throughout his meetings with U.S. leaders - including President Trump and Vice-President J.D. Vance - avoiding direct criticism of the Gaza proposal and sidestepping questions on Ireland’s Occupied Territories Bill.

Martin’s reluctance to challenge Trump on his “Riviera” plan for Gaza, instead focusing on humanitarian aid and a two-state solution, drew criticism at home, especially given Sinn Féin and other opposition parties' boycotts of White House events in protest. His meeting with U.S.-based Jewish organisations, including the AJC and ADL, exposed further tension. While the AJC claimed Martin confirmed the Occupied Territories Bill was off the legislative agenda, his office denied this - raising concerns over Ireland bowing to pressure from pro-Israel lobbying groups.

The visit reflected a broader trend: Ireland’s foreign policy continues to prioritise diplomatic equilibrium over holding Israel accountable. Martin’s emphasis on combatting antisemitism, adoption of the IHRA definition, and vague positioning on Palestinian rights has reinforced perceptions of inaction. The fallout at home - including criticism from Irish Labour TD Duncan Smith - signals growing frustration that Ireland’s pro-Palestine stance may be increasingly symbolic. The trip ultimately revealed the limits of Ireland’s approach: rhetorical commitment without political courage.