The departure of Israeli forces from a strategic post in southern Lebanon where Irish peacekeepers are stationed has been welcomed by Irish leaders, including Taoiseach Simon Harris and Tánaiste Micheál Martin. The development came amid growing concerns for the safety of Irish peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) in the midst of heightened conflict in the region.
According to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces, UN reports have confirmed that there are no IDF personnel or vehicles observed in the vicinity of their position. The Irish troops, who are deployed in Unifil as part of a peacekeeping mission, are well-equipped to ensure their long-term sustainability during their mission, and are committed to maintaining a robust operational presence.
Speaking on the situation, Harris described the news as “extremely welcome” and acknowledged the efforts of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to address the safety concerns of Irish troops. He emphasized that the situation in southern Lebanon remains tense and dangerous, and that his government will continue to monitor it closely.
Troops Deployed in Lebanon Welcome Israeli Withdrawal (Image via Getty)
Martin, who spoke on the conflict in the Middle East, emphasized the devastating consequences it has had on the people of Lebanon and Gaza, and emphasized the need for a political track to achieve peace. He urged Israel to desist from firing rockets and Hezbollah to desist from firing rockets, and called for a negotiated agreement between all parties.
The Taoiseach will visit Washington DC to meet with US President Joe Biden as part of a series of events marking 100 years of Irish-US diplomatic relations, and will engage with the US president on matters in the region. Martin expressed the need for Ireland to engage with the international community to try and bring these horrible situations to an end, and emphasized the importance of proportionality in dealing with proxy conflicts.
