Donald Trump arrived at Dublin Airport on Saturday morning for a two-day visit to Ireland, with protests anticipated during his stay. The former president, an avid golf enthusiast, previously expressed his desire to visit Doonbeg, where his golf course is located, to attend the Irish Open.
In a video message for a U.S. Embassy Fourth of July celebration, Trump spoke of his anticipation for the event. "There's nothing better than Irish-American friendship and I have a beautiful place over there - it's one of the best, most beautiful golf courses anywhere in the world," he stated. He referred to his property as Trump National Golf Club and envisioned a "tremendous celebration."
During his visit, Trump was also expected to meet with President Michael D. Higgins. President Higgins, who has been vocal about the conflict in Gaza and has previously criticized Trump's approach to tariffs, faced pressure from Sinn Féin and other political parties. These groups urged Higgins to raise the issue of Gaza during her meeting with the U.S. president. Ireland has maintained a strong pro-Palestinian stance within the European Union, a position that has drawn criticism from Israel.