The article discusses the tense dynamics surrounding the proposed Occupied Territories Bill in Ireland, which would prohibit imports of certain Israeli goods. The Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, is urged to clarify discussions with Israeli lobbying groups following accusations of antisemitism against him. During his meeting with prominent Jewish organizations in Washington, he rejected these allegations, asserting they distort Ireland's stance on the Middle East. The situation reflects broader controversies over Ireland's foreign policy and its engagement in international legal matters concerning Israel.
The Taoiseach needs to urgently clarify what was discussed with/promised to the Israeli lobby in the US. The delay (bad) and dilution (worse) of the Occupied Territories Bill would be nothing next to it being swept off the legislative agenda.
I think there's an element of deliberate undermining of Ireland's position and distortion of Ireland's position in respect of this.
Mr Martin said it was "absurd" to label him antisemitic and added: "I think there's an element of deliberate undermining of Ireland's position and distortion of Ireland's position in respect of this."
Following the meeting, the Taoiseach's spokesman said that Mr Martin had 'categorically' not told the Jewish delegation that the Bill had been dropped.
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