US Jewish groups criticize Ireland's Occupied Territories Bill

Jewish groups in the U.S. met with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin to discuss concerns about antisemitism and the proposed Occupied Territories Bill, which would ban imports from certain Israeli areas. Martin indicated the bill is not on the legislative agenda. The meeting followed accusations from Israeli officials that Ireland's government encourages antisemitism. Martin rejected these claims, stating they distort Ireland's position on the Middle East. He emphasized Ireland's humanitarian approach to the Gaza conflict. The groups urged Martin to reconsider the Occupied Territories Bill and expressed concerns about rising antisemitism in Ireland. Martin announced plans to appoint a national coordinator to address antisemitism and develop a strategy against it.