Airey Neave, a prominent British politician and member of the Conservative Party, was assassinated as he left the Palace of Westminster in London. Known for his staunch opposition to the Irish Republican Army and his advocacy for Northern Ireland's union with Great Britain, Neave's assassination marked a significant moment in the conflict known as 'The Troubles.' The Irish National Liberation Army (INLA), a paramilitary organization seeking to unify Ireland, claimed responsibility for the attack. Neave was targeted due to his support of policies that aimed to suppress Irish republicanism and his vocal criticism of the IRA's activities.

Neave had been a Member of Parliament since 1953 and was well-known for his role in the British government, serving as the Shadow Minister for Northern Ireland. His commitment to British nationalist politics made him a target for groups opposing British rule in Northern Ireland. The car bomb that killed him detonated as he was about to enter his vehicle, resulting in a catastrophic explosion that destroyed the car and fatally wounded Neave.

This incident shocked the British public and raised concerns about the safety of politicians amid rising political violence in Britain. It intensified debates over national security, counter-terrorism measures, and the government's response to the ongoing violence associated with the Troubles. Neave's assassination not only galvanized public opinion against the INLA but also highlighted the precarious nature of British-Irish relations during this period. Furthermore, it served to underscore the growing threat of political extremism in the UK, with significant implications for the future of British politics and policy regarding Northern Ireland.