Mary Lou McDonald said she could not visit while there was a threat of mass expulsion hanging over the Palestinian people
Sinn Féin has announced it will not attend the White House’s St. Patrick’s Day event, citing opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments on the potential mass expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and Vice-President Michelle O’Neill will not attend, while the DUP has criticized the decision as reckless, with DUP members planning to attend. McDonald supports Taoiseach Micheál Martin attending if invited, emphasizing his unique role in representing Ireland and addressing Palestine issues. Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris have highlighted the importance of engagement with the U.S. administration to protect Irish interests and advocate for a two-state solution in the Middle East.