Mon Sep 23 22:02:52 UTC 2024: ## President Higgins Stands by Comments on Israeli Embassy, Taoiseach Deflects Criticism

**New York, NY** – President Michael D. Higgins has defended his comments about the Israeli embassy circulating a letter he wrote to the Iranian President, saying that the action was “improper” and “unusually” followed his letter to the Iranian leader.

In a heated press conference, President Higgins reiterated that the Israeli embassy had circulated the letter, despite saying he did not accuse them of leaking it. He emphasized that he believes the letter appeared on the Iranian website first and that the Israeli embassy subsequently issued a statement condemning him for writing to the Iranian president.

The President’s comments have sparked controversy, with the Israeli embassy denying any involvement in circulating the letter. However, the Taoiseach, Simon Harris, and Tánaiste, Micheál Martin, have both defended the President, suggesting that Israel’s actions are more concerning than the letter itself.

Harris stated that the issue at hand should be Israel’s failure to uphold international law, not the letter’s circulation. “Let’s talk about the failure of Israel to respect international law,” he said, adding that “This isn’t Pen pals International. This is a situation where children are dying because of the blatant breaching of international law.”

The President’s comments come amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran. President Higgins has been a vocal critic of Israeli policies, calling for respect for international law and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

**Email Alert Subject: President Higgins Defends Comments on Israeli Embassy, Taoiseach Deflects Criticism**

**Email Alert Body:**

President Michael D. Higgins has defended his comments about the Israeli embassy circulating a letter he wrote to the Iranian President, saying the action was “improper”. The President reiterated that the Israeli embassy had circulated the letter, sparking controversy. The Taoiseach, Simon Harris, has defended the President, suggesting that the real issue is Israel’s failure to uphold international law.

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