Ireland remains steadfast in its commitment to renewing the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission, according to Tánaiste Simon Harris. Harris engaged in crucial discussions with European Union and United Nations counterparts on Friday, aiming to secure the continuation of the mission before its mandate renewal at the end of August.
During separate calls, Harris conferred with UN Under Secretary General for Peace Operations Jean Pierre LaCroix, Italian Foreign minister Antonio Taranji, and Lebanese Foreign Minister youssef Raggi. Following these discussions, the Tánaiste expressed his pride in the Irish Defence Forces members serving in UNIFIL, highlighting their daily contributions to international peacekeeping since 1978.
“It is clear to me, including through my visit in March this year, that UNIFIL continues to play a vital role in ensuring stability and security,” Harris stated.He further emphasized ireland’s dedication to fostering peace and stability in Lebanon, which includes upholding UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and ensuring the renewal of UNIFIL’s mandate in the coming weeks.
In his conversation with Mr. Raggi, Harris also addressed the ongoing trial concerning the killing of Private Sean Rooney in Lebanon in December 2022. “I underscored the importance of ensuring accountability and justice in this case for the family of Private Rooney, the Government and people of Ireland,” he said.
harris is scheduled to hold further discussions on the matter, including with the French foreign minister, who is leading the efforts to secure the mandate’s renewal. Poland has also voiced its support for the mission’s continuation, recognizing its importance for regional stability and security.
The Tánaiste informed the Cabinet this week that the UNIFIL mission is essential for troop retention and morale, and also for demonstrating Ireland’s “unwavering commitment to international peace and security.”
The UNIFIL mission, established in 1978, plays a critical role in maintaining peace and security in southern Lebanon. Ireland has been a consistent contributor to UNIFIL, with its Defence Forces personnel serving with distinction. The mission’s mandate is reviewed periodically by the UN Security council, with Resolution 1701 being a key framework for its operations, aiming to prevent the escalation of conflict and support the Lebanese Armed Forces.
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