Brendan O'Connor The Newspaper Panel
Apr 5, 2026
Brigid Laffan, European politics expert; Ellen Coyne, political reporter; Oisín Coghlan, energy and climate adviser; Finian McGrath, disability rights advocate. They discuss a US rescue in Iran and risks of escalation. They cover how the Gulf conflict hits Ireland’s cost of living and transport. Energy strategy, renewables and LNG get debate. By-elections, polling and Artemis II’s inspiring moon mission are also explored.
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Scale And Secrecy Of The US Rescue Operation
- The US mounted a large, multi-domain rescue after an F-15E was downed, using CIA deception, special forces, air strikes and destruction of disabled transport planes on the ground.
- The New York Times account details a 24+ hour evasion by the airman, use of beacons sparingly, and two transport planes blown up to prevent capture.
Warning Against Glorifying Military Action
- Finian McGrath warned against glorifying military action and emphasised civilian casualties, citing 165 children killed in a recent school attack in Iran.
- He argued leaders like Trump, Netanyahu and Putin escalate conflicts and stressed defending international law over applause for military spectacle.
Rescue Reduces Risk But War Dynamics Remain Fragile
- Brigid Laffan saw the pilot's rescue as reducing immediate escalation risk but warned the situation remains poised to either de-escalate or rapidly escalate.
- She highlighted pressure from Trump's deadlines, troop movements, and the danger that military buildup creates temptation to use force.