Did Hitler Ever Consider Invading Ireland During World War II?
Many assume that Germany invaded Ireland during World War II, but the reality is more nuanced and complex. In this article, we will explore the historical context, the myth of German invasions, and the real intentions behind any plans that were ever drafted.
The Myth of German Invasion: Bombing Dublin and the 'Operation Green' Plan
A frequently cited but incorrect theory is that Germany conducted an actual invasion of Ireland. In reality, the only significant evidence of German activity in Irish airspace was the bombing of Dublin in 1941. The claim that the bombing was a mistake for Belfast is a common conspiracy theory. However, this was in fact a warning to the Dublin government to remain neutral.
Germany never invaded Ireland, and the bombing of Dublin was a targeted action taken for strategic reasons. The Irish Free State, officially neutral, did not share a land border with any Axis power, making invasion from the sea highly challenging. By 1942, both the British Royal Navy and British Royal Air Force, along with the US Navy and US Army Air Forces, intensified their protection of Irish waters and airspace.
Ashore or Aboard: The Land and Naval Challenges
Geographically isolated, Ireland posed a formidable barrier for any invasion force. The British enforcement of naval and air blockade made it nearly impossible for any Axis power to launch a direct assault. Operation Green, a theoretical plan by Hitler, and Plan Kathleen for Northern Ireland, were never meant to be executed. They were more likely tools to distract or worry the British.
For Operation Green to have a chance, the German navy and air force would need to overcome formidable defenses. The British Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, supported by US counterparts, would have posed a significant threat. The IRA, while willing to assist in smaller conflicts, lacked the resources for a full-scale war. This suggests that a full invasion would have face strong resistance and guerrilla tactics from the Irish people, which would not have welcomed a new foreign occupier after the end of British rule.
Plans and Realities: Ulster and the IRA
Operation Green and Plan Kathleen
In 1940, it was evident that the fall of Dunkirk had weakened British resolve, prompting Hitler to reconsider attacking Britain through the invasion of France. However, the Allies' success prevented this. As a result, the German High Command drafted theoretical plans, such as Operation Sea Lion, Operation Green, and Plan Kathleen.
Operation Green, a theoretical invasion plan for Ireland, and Plan Kathleen for Northern Ireland, were shelved after the postponement of Operation Sea Lion in the fall of 1940. These plans were more likely to be propaganda tools than realistic military strategies. It’s important to note that the German High Command’s views on an invasion were complicated by several factors, including the IRA’s lack of anti-British resources and the high likelihood of a guerrilla warfare campaign from the Irish people.
Secrecy and Strategy: The Reality Behind Germany’s Plans
The Irish government's neutral stance was a significant factor in deterring any aggressive action from Germany. This neutrality, combined with the strong Allied support, made an invasion of Ireland both politically and militarily impractical. The strategic advantages of maintaining neutrality were likely too compelling for the Irish government to abandon.
Therefore, while the myth of a German invasion of Ireland persists, the reality is that any such plans were never realized, and the actions taken by Germany in 1941 were more strategic in nature. The bombing of Dublin was likely a warning of the consequences of trying to avoid neutrality rather than an actual invasion attempt.