Sir, – I refer to the article “At least 32 people killed in Somali beach attack” (News, August 3rd) on the murder of 32 Somalis in a beach attack by the militant Islamist group Al Shabaab. Iran’s support for Al-Shabaab has been condemned by the current Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Iran is intent on destabilising the Horn of Africa by targeting US and allied forces and smuggling weapons to various conflict zones. This engagement undermines regional security and encourages atrocities such as the beach attack on Saturday.
Against this backdrop, the letter from Irish President Michael D Higgins to Iran, expressing condolences for the death of president Raisi and congratulations to the new president, was ill judged.
The letter overlooked Iran’s malign activities in Somalia and the broader region, which have significant geopolitical and security implications. In extending diplomatic niceties to a regime actively involved in supporting terrorism and destabilising neighbouring countries, this could be seen as legitimising or ignoring these actions.
Fintan O'Toole: Ireland is running out of priests. There is an obvious solution
Quiet shattered in Keir Starmer’s old neighbourhood after firebomb attack at house owned by prime minister
Munster will face probably the best Benetton side that has ever set foot on an Irish ground
Ghost Wedding by David Park: Compelling novel bleeds past and present in tale of secrets and division
Such a gesture undermines international efforts to hold Iran accountable and may weaken the stance of countries opposing Iran’s actions in Africa. – Yours, etc,
GAVIN REDDIN,
Swords,
Co Dublin.
