Sinn Féin Leaders Boycott St. Patrick's Day Events Over Trump's Gaza Stance

Sinn Féin leaders Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill announced they will boycott the White House St. Patrick's Day celebrations in protest against Donald Trump's remarks regarding the mass expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza. They stated that the decision was taken with a heavy heart but reflects their duty to call out injustice, particularly in light of Trump's controversial proposal to 'take over' Gaza. The leaders emphasized their solidarity with the Palestinian people, noting that attending the event would contradict their principles. Meanwhile, Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin plans to meet Trump, dismissing Sinn Féin's boycott as a publicity stunt and asserting that engagement is more beneficial for the Palestinian cause. This marks a significant departure from the traditional participation of Sinn Féin in St. Patrick's Day events in the U.S., where they typically seek to strengthen ties with the Irish-American community. The decision has sparked criticism from other political leaders, who argue it undermines Northern Ireland's relationship with the U.S.