Tánaiste discusses UNIFIL with the Foreign Ministers of Lebanon and Italy and the UN Under Secretary General for Peace Operations

Tánaiste Simon Harris held constructive discussions with UN Under Secretary General for Peace Operations, Jean Pierre LaCroix, Foreign Minister of Italy, Antonio Taranji, and Foreign Minister of Lebanon, Youssef Raggi, this afternoon (18 July).

These calls were an opportunity for the Tánaiste to express Ireland’s ongoing strong support for the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the upcoming renewal of the mandate at the end August.

Speaking after the meeting, the Tánaiste said: “This afternoon’s calls were an important opportunity to express Ireland’s strong commitment to UNIFIL and share perspectives on the upcoming renewal of its mandate.

“Since 1978, participation in UNIFIL has been a key demonstration of Ireland’s commitment to international peacekeeping. I remain exceptionally proud of the Defence Forces members serving in UNIFIL and the contribution they make every day.

“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.

“Ireland remains committed to supporting peace and stability in Lebanon including through the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the renewal of UNIFIL’s mandate in the coming weeks.

“During my call with the Lebanese Foreign Minister, Youssef Rajji, we also discussed the ongoing trial of those accused of the killing of Private Seán 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.”

ENDS

Press Office

18 July 2025

Ireland has participated in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) since the operation was established on 19 March 1978. Ireland is the only nation to have a continuous presence on UN and UN-mandated peace support operations since 1958. The presence of the UNIFIL mission is vital to maintaining peace and security, providing support to the Lebanese Government and stability in the wider region. The UN Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2749 (2024) on 28 August 2024, extending the mission’s mandate until 31 August 2025. The renewal of the UNIFIL mandate is due to be considered by the UN Security Council before 31 August 2025.