Trump’s backing for a united Ireland has reignited a divisive political issue. Here’s what to know

U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his support for a united Ireland on Sunday, suggesting that merging the Republic of Ireland with Northern Ireland makes sense. This stance reignited a long-standing political debate dating back more than a century.

The issue emerged during Trump's visit to Doonbeg, Ireland, where he attended the Irish Open at his golf course. Trump stated, "It just seems to me that you have Northern Ireland and you have Ireland, and it would seem to me that one of the naturals of all time is put them together."

This position has sparked a swift reaction from various quarters. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called for a calm perspective and denounced some responses as an overreaction. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland's political landscape remains deeply divided, with nationalists seeking union with the Republic of Ireland and unionists desiring to remain part of the United Kingdom.

The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 largely ended the decades-long violence known as "The Troubles," but it did not resolve Northern Ireland's ultimate status. The accord allows for a vote on unification if polls suggest it would likely pass, a process that remains pending.

While all major Irish political parties technically support unification on paper, Sinn Fein, a political party that advocates for a united Ireland, views the current government's preparation as insufficient. Martin acknowledged that Trump's remarks were expected given his different perspective on the matter.