US President Joe Biden’s heart is “in the right place” over the conflict in Gaza, the Irish premier has said.
Leo Varadkar is in Washington DC for a week of engagements which will involve meeting Mr Biden.
The Taoiseach has said he will tell the the US president that Irish people strongly believe there should be an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Asked by reporters if this year’s traditional visit to the White House was difficult due to the US administration’s position on the Middle East conflict, Mr Varadkar said it presented a “new aspect” to the engagement.
He said: “Obviously, in Gaza its catastrophic and a great concern.
“I have to say, I believe President Biden’s heart is in the right place there.
“I know he’s working with Egypt, with Qatar, with Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region, the Jordanians, to try and get Israel and Hamas to agree to a ceasefire.
“So I’m keen to hear from him what his perspective is, but also to put across the very strong view of the Irish people that there should be an immediate ceasefire, so the hostages can be released, so that medicine and food that’s desperately needed can get into Gaza.
“But what we need beyond that is a pathway towards a just and lasting piece.”
