Ireland mobilizes army to clear port-blocking protests over fuel taxes

The Irish government dispatched the army to remove trucks and tractors blocking key ports (Foynes and Whitegate) and major roads, citing risks to fuel supply and public health as protesters push for deeper fuel-tax cuts. Prime Minister Micheál Martin said reopening ports was essential and rejected talks with protesters who lack industry backing, while opposition criticized the escalation; the disruption threatens Ireland’s imports and essential services like water purification chemical supply.