Irish President Michael Higgins criticized the Jewish state during his Holocaust Remembrance Day speech at the Mansion House in Dublin on Sunday night. He blasted Israeli military operations against the terrorist militia Hamas in Gaza.

Higgins who has an history of anti-Israel statements, appeared to equate the Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, massacre of 1,200 Israelis with Israel exercising its right of self-defense against Hamas forces in Gaza. 

“The grief caused to families by the horrific acts of October 7, and the response to them, is unimaginable. The loss of civilian lives, the displacement of people, the destruction of homes and institutions – all are beyond comprehension," Higgins stated.

"The current agreement must end the killing and urgently provide a massive increase in humanitarian aid to save more lives. It is essential that all remaining hostages are freed and that every stage of the agreement is fully implemented,” he continued. 

Jews who attended the event and protested against Higgins’s remarks, were forcibly removed from the venue. 

Maurice Cohen, chairman of the Irish Jewish Council of Representatives argued that Higgins presence at the Holocaust memorial event was “inappropriate” as it could offend many attendees. 

"This solemn occasion requires respect, sensitivity, and a commitment to honoring the memory of the victims. His participation may offend many in the audience, both Jewish and non-Jewish, who expect dignity and unity on such an important day," Cohen stated. 

Read the full article at All Israel News.