First Minister Michelle O’Neill is facing criticism for refusing to attend security briefings held by the UK Government on the conflict in the Middle East.
She has said on social media that “further escalation, including the involvement of the British government, reflects a dangerous disregard for international law.”
“I will not be part of any briefing by the British government on their military operations.”
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said on Monday that the briefings are not related to military activity; “that is not what these briefings are, we’re having meetings at a privy council level which gives us an overview about what is happening militarily in the area.”
“Primarily that is engaging in terms of the US, Iran and Israel. The overview gives us a better sense about what is likely to happen in the next number of days, the impact of that conflict globally, including on the UK and of course Northern Ireland.”
Over the past number of days, I have spoken with many families whose loved ones are in the Middle East.
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) March 2, 2026
I am in ongoing contact with the Irish and British governments and I am working to support our citizens in the region.
This war is reckless and irresponsible.
Further… pic.twitter.com/D4F7LFLt6k
The SDLP opposition have said that “the failure to provide even a pretence of coherent devolved government response is utterly unacceptable.”
Matthew O’Toole continued: “There is no excuse for failing to show up, attend meetings and advocate on behalf of the people you represent.”
“Many families in Northern Ireland have loved ones in the Middle East and they are worried about their safety. Others are concerned about the knock-on impact of rising energy and fuel prices on already stretched household budgets, especially given our reliance on cars and unregulated home heating oil which are already spiking in cost.”
“Political disagreement is not an excuse for the abdication of leadership and the public have been failed yet again by parties who always put themselves first,” he added.
DUP leader Gavin Robinson told The Nolan Show on Tuesday that the First Minister is “taking a withdrawal approach to quite a lot of the responsibilities associated with the office she holds.”
Sinn Fein’s national chairperson Declan Kearney MLA said in a statement on Monday that it is “the correct decision” for O’Neill not to attend the briefings.
“Michelle O’Neill’s decision not to attend British government ‘confidential security’ briefings demonstrates political leadership. It is the correct decision. We will not be in any way complicit with Britain’s involvement with this mindless war. The spectre of the catastrophic wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya once again looms large.”
“We have previously witnessed devastation caused when western powers arrogantly believe they know better than the people of the Middle East, leaving behind death, destruction and instability. We will continue to advocate for diplomacy, peace and adherence to international law.”
“Sinn Féin will stay focused on ensuring the safety of our citizens in the region; and urging an immediate de-escalation, an end to hostilities by all sides, political dialogue, and commitment to peaceful coexistence.”
