Irish Troops’ Safety With UNIFIL in Lebanon Under Inspection Amid Israeli Military Proximity

The presence of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) near the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) outpost, where several Irish troops are stationed, has been deemed “concerning” by UNIFIL, according to sources from the United Nations Headquarters. UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti highlighted to the Irish broadcaster RTÉ that the IDF are positioned merely a few hundred meters from camp UN-652. This proximity has raised alarms amid ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.

Speaking on the matter, Ireland‘s President, Michael D Higgins, expressed that it is “outrageous” for the IDF to have “threatened” UNIFIL peacekeepers, demanding their evacuation from Lebanese villages they are meant to protect. In an interview from Beirut, Tenenti indicated that discussions are underway in New York hoping Israeli military forces will distance themselves from the area, safeguarding the security of UNIFIL personnel.

In response, should the IDF remain near the area, Tenenti mentioned that further steps by the UN Security Council would be considered. Currently, he noted that the troops have provisions sufficient for several weeks, and additional supplies are en route as an effort to mitigate tensions.

Concerns extend beyond Irish troops as UNIFIL positions 29 additional sites along the “Blue Line,” a demarcation formed in 2000 when Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon. Kevin Byrne, a former Lieutenant Colonel with the Air Corps, highlighted to RTÉ’s News at One the precarious circumstances due to the positioning of UNIFIL along this line, citing potential issues with electricity and food supplies. Nonetheless, Byrne reassured that the troops are equipped with high-standard facilities.

Amidst this atmosphere, Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris addressed the anniversary of the attacks in the Middle East on October 7, applauding for peace. He accused Hamas of conducting the assault on Israel, urging for the unconditional release of all hostages taken during the incident in 2023.

Taoiseach Harris condemned the violence saying: “We cannot, and we will not, ever forget. Neither can we ever tolerate a world where civilians face systematic brutal violence or peaceful individuals at a music festival face terror, murder, and abduction.” He extended his condolences, particularly recalling 22-year-old Kim Damti among the victims.

Echoing similar sentiments, Tánaiste Micheál Martin called for an end to the violence, emphasizing the need for political dialogue. He recognized the anguish experienced by Israeli citizens, as well as global Jewish communities, while also acknowledging the “justifiable outrage” over the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza over the past year.

Martin stated: “Ireland’s position is clear. An immediate ceasefire, hostages’ release, and a substantial increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza are indispensable.”