Taoiseach to meet Trump, discuss trade tensions, antisemitism

Taoiseach Micheál Martin is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump during the annual St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Washington, where discussions will likely revolve around trade relations and the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. Martin aims to highlight the importance of the economic relationship between Ireland and the U.S., especially in light of recent U.S. tariffs that threaten to spark a trade war with the EU. The backdrop of the meeting is marked by souring relations between Ireland and Israel, leading to Israel's closure of its embassy in Dublin due to perceived anti-Israel policies by the Irish government. In addition to meeting Trump, Martin will engage with representatives of the U.S. Jewish community to address rising global antisemitism and Ireland's role in combating it. The meeting with Trump is also significant as he has recently taken a hardline stance on foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel and Palestine. Overall, Martin's visit underscores the complex interplay of diplomatic and economic issues at stake between the U.S., Ireland, and the broader international community.