Trump Links 9/11 to Iran War in Memorial Remarks, Arrives in Ireland

Donald Trump controversially linked the September 11th attacks to the ongoing conflict with Iran during memorial remarks at the Pentagon on Friday, September 11, 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of 9/11. He stated that the United States was continuing the "war on terror" by fighting Iran to prevent it from obtaining nuclear weapons, a conflict now in its seventh month. This decision to connect the 9/11 commemorations with the current Iran conflict drew criticism, particularly as he skipped the main ceremony in New York.

Following his remarks, President Trump departed for a two-day visit to Ireland, arriving in Dublin on Saturday, September 12, 2026. His itinerary included scheduled meetings with Irish President Catherine Connolly and Prime Minister Micheál Martin, as well as an address to U.S. and Irish business leaders. The visit's central focus, however, appeared to be his attendance at the Irish Open golf tournament held at his Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare.

Trump's presence in Ireland has been met with mixed reactions, including protests in Dublin from those critical of his policies and the disruption caused by the visit. Polls indicated a significant portion of the Irish public did not support the visit, leading to enhanced security measures involving thousands of personnel.