Irish Boycott of Israel Compromises Government Jet Safety

The Irish boycott of Israel is beginning to take a toll on safety. The Irish government recently acquired a modern and luxurious business jet at a cost of 53 million euros, intended to serve Prime Minister Micheál Martin and his ministers. However, it has emerged that the aircraft is devoid of an advanced navigation system, as the technology—which allows for safe landing in conditions of extremely poor visibility—is manufactured by the Israeli company Elbit.

The new plane, a French Dassault Falcon 6X model, was purchased following repeated malfunctions in the previous government aircraft. Sources in Ireland confirmed that a decision was made to forgo the installation of FalconEye, an infrared system that projects a clear image to pilots through clouds and fog, which is considered a standard feature for such aircraft.

Dublin chose to omit the system to comply with the policy championed by Martin in August 2024, which mandates that Ireland cease purchasing defense components from Israel. Installing FalconEye required a direct contract with Elbit, crossing a red line for the Irish government. The practical implication, as explained by a former Irish pilot, is that while other planes will be able to land in heavy fog, the ministers' aircraft will be forced to divert to alternative airfields. The Irish Department of Defence provided a laconic response, claiming there is no impairment to the aircraft's operational capabilities.

It seems that hostility toward Israel is blurring the Irish field of vision. While there are calls to boycott Israel even on football pitches, the government in Dublin appears willing to compromise the safety of the Prime Minister and senior ministers in the air, simply to avoid doing business with Israel.