250. Alan Shatter: Gaza, Antisemitism & Ireland’s Israel Divide | Part 2
12 October 2026
About This Episode
In Part 2 of this extended conversation on The Ireland Podcast, former Irish Minister for Justice Alan Shatter continues his discussion with Fender Jackson about Israel, Palestine, Gaza, antisemitism and the political divisions surrounding the conflict.
Shatter examines Ireland's changing relationship with Israel, the influence of history and political identity on Irish attitudes, and the distinction between legitimate criticism of Israeli government policy and antisemitism.
The conversation raises difficult questions about how Ireland should respond to the conflict, the role of Zionism in contemporary political debate, and the competing interpretations of events in Israel and Palestine.
Among the questions explored:
* How should Ireland approach its relationship with Israel?
* Where is the distinction between criticism of Israel and antisemitism?
* How do history and political loyalties shape Irish attitudes towards Palestine?
* Why has the Israeli–Palestinian conflict become such a divisive issue in Irish public life?
* What does Shatter believe Irish political leaders and commentators misunderstand about Israel?
Shatter offers his perspective in an extended, sometimes challenging conversation. His interpretations and conclusions are open to scrutiny and disagreement.
This is the second instalment of a two-part interview.
The Ireland Podcast seeks to record a broad range of voices and perspectives across the island. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast.
The Ireland Podcast - Recording the island.
Alan Shatter
Alan Shatter is an Irish former politician, solicitor and author. He served as Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence from 2011 to 2014 and represented Dublin South as a Fine Gael TD over several decades. He has been an outspoken commentator on Israel, antisemitism, Irish politics and international affairs.