Ireland’s prime minister steering a cautious, pro-EU line amid Gaza war tensions, Israel diplomacy, and China trade talks.
The Irish government has secured support in a confidence vote following protests over rising fuel costs. Sinn Fein has criticised the government's handling of the protests, which have included blockades and disruptions. Prime Minister Micheál Martin has announced new tax cuts to address the crisis, which has been driven by the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The political fallout continues as protests persist and opposition parties push for an election.
Irish celebrities and sports figures have joined a campaign urging the Republic of Ireland to boycott UEFA Nations League matches against Israel, amid claims of genocide in Gaza and breaches of UEFA/FIFA rules. The open letter to the FAI, backed by prominent signatories, argues humanitarian concerns should take precedence over sport. Ireland is set to host Israel on October 4 at Aviva Stadium, with a September 27 neutral-site Israeli home match planned.
Ireland is moving to pass a law limiting goods from Israeli-occupied West Bank settlements to a goods-only ban by mid-July, in line with government aims. The measure has faced opposition from business lobbyists and some politicians who prefer expanding the ban to services. Prime Minister Micheál Martin has signalled that widening to services would be unworkable, keeping the focus on goods.
Carney has visited Ireland on his way to the G7 meeting, reflecting on his family roots and urging stronger Canada-Ireland-Europe ties as post-Cold War rules-based order shows strain. He also notes a family connection and pays respects in Aughagower, while political leaders in Dublin pledge to deepen EU-Canada links.