President Trump responded to comments allegedly related to the US-Israel strikes in Iran made by President Catherine Connolly three weeks ago.
During his meeting with Micheál Martin in the Oval Office, President Trump responded to Catherine Connolly's comments saying the Irish President is "lucky he exists".
The leaders had an amicable meeting ahead of the annual shamrock ceremony which is a part of the St Patrick’s Day ceremony held in the White House.
On the agenda Tuesday, were the US-Israel strikes on Iran, Ireland’s position in regards to the conflict unfolding in the region …
Responding to President Catherine Connolly’s alleged comments on the unlawfulness of the US and Israel’s strikes in Iran, the US President says the Irish President is ‘lucky’ he exists.
He continued, saying everyone in the world should be thankful he attacked Iran.
“We can’t allow countries that are sick and demented to have nuclear weapons. I’m disappointed in NATO and in a couple of other countries.”
President Connolly described it as ‘deliberate assaults on International law’ without naming the US or Israel.
Connolly speaking in Dublin Castle after todays victory. Photo: Eamonn Farrell.Micheál Martin thanked the US president for the invitation, and referenced the 355 million Americans who claim Irish heritage.
The leaders were then asked a series of questions by the media in attendance.
“It's a great honor to have Taoiseach Martin from Ireland and somebody that we know we get along with”, President Trump said from the Oval office.
He teased “big discussions concerning trade and lots of different subjects”
“We have a tremendous trade relationship with Ireland and we'll keep it that way.”
He acknowledged the Taoiseach’s potential interest in discussing the punitive tariffs imposed on a select number of countries earlier this year but declined to comment on the matter.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin thanked the US President for facilitating the visit during “one of the most important weeks in the United States” and contributing to the “tremendous bonds between Ireland and the United States that go back to the very foundation of this republic.”
Martin referenced the 35 million Americans who claim Irish heritage.
"The Irish helped to build America and we're very proud of that."
Taoiseach Micheál Martin speaks with US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office during the White House St Patrick's Day celebrations.
Wishing a happy St Patrick's Day to all.
Lá Fheile Pádraig daoibh go léir. pic.twitter.com/ZgIcrekzwg— Government of Ireland (@GovIE) March 17, 2026
The Taoiseach also stressed the importance of improving strained relationships between the US and Europe.
Speaking from the Oval Office, President Trump said he was "Going to try" and visit Ireland, when his Doonbeg golf course hosts the Irish Open in September.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin had limited speaking time during his meeting with Donald Trump.
He defended Europe's immigration policy, something the President had slammed.
“Ireland is still a very good place to live in.
“You just have to have robust and fair rules around migration.
“We’re attracting people to move and work from Europe and beyond. I would love it if we could develop a pathway between us and Ireland for that in the future.”
Main Image: US President Donald Trump and An Taoiseach Micheál Martin during the Oval Office visit on Tuesday 17th of March for St Patrick's Day.
