Michael D Higgins addresses Iran letter leak at UN in New York

Michael D. Higgins, the President of Ireland, accused the Israeli Embassy in Dublin of leaking a letter he wrote to the newly appointed President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian. This letter, which expressed condolences for the death of Pezeshkian's predecessor, Ebrahim Raisi, became public and sparked criticism in both the UK and Ireland. Higgins made these allegations during a speech at the United Nations in New York, suggesting that the letter was circulated with ulterior motives. The Israeli Embassy responded to Higgins' claims, labeling them as "baseless" and "slanderous." They emphasized that the letter did not address the threats posed by Iran in the region, instead focusing on the humanitarian crisis following the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel. The embassy's statement highlighted the ongoing tensions and accusations against Israel in the wake of the conflict. Higgins defended his actions by stating that sending letters upon the election of a new head of state is standard diplomatic practice. His office clarified that the letter was a routine exchange and should not have been portrayed as controversial. This incident reflects the complexities of diplomatic relations amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. The situation has drawn attention to the humanitarian crisis in the region, with Irish officials urging a focus on the ongoing violence rather than engaging in disputes over diplomatic correspondence. The exchange underscores the delicate balance of international relations and the impact of public statements on diplomatic ties.