Campaigners and activists protesting at Shannon Airport late last year over its use by the US military. Photograph: Enda O'DowdThe use of Shannon Airport for flights carrying Palestinians being deported from the United States has been described as “reprehensible”, “deeply disturbing” and “outrageous” by Opposition politicians in the Republic. The first of the two flights passed through Shannon Airport on the night of January 20th/21st with eight Palestinian men on board, reportedly with their wrists and ankles shackled. They were transported in the Gulfstream jet from Arizona to Tel Aviv in Israel with refuelling stops in New Jersey, Shannon Airport and Bulgaria. The Irish Times has sought comment from Dezer Development, the departments of homeland security and department of state.

Source: The Irish Times February 06, 2026 20:02 UTC