Irish President Criticized for Linking Gaza Conflict to Holocaust Remembrance

Michael Higgins' speech at a Holocaust memorial event sparks backlash for addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict and Gaza's humanitarian crisis.

Irish President Michael D. Higgins drew criticism for mentioning the Gaza conflict during his keynote speech at Ireland's National Holocaust Memorial Day event.
Protesters, including a pregnant woman, were forcibly removed after silently objecting to Higgins' remarks by turning their backs on him during the speech.
Higgins emphasized the importance of 'ethical remembrance' and linked Holocaust lessons to addressing global injustices, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Jewish community leaders and Northern Ireland’s deputy First Minister condemned the speech as inappropriate and politicized, while others defended Higgins’ broader message on human rights.
This marks the seventh time Higgins has attended the annual commemoration, with the event also featuring Holocaust survivors' testimonies and a recitation of victims’ names.