Taoiseach Simon Harris speaks by phone with the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres

Taoiseach Simon Harris spoke by phone with the Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres.

The Secretary General thanked the Taoiseach for Ireland using its voice to stand up for peace, humanitarian law and an end to conflict in the world.

The Taoiseach raised the ongoing war in the Middle East and the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Both agreed on the need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and for aid to flow freely.

Simon Harris spoke of Ireland’s commitment to the institutions of the UN like UNRWA and UNICEF and their lifesaving work.

Antonio Guterres thanked Irish peacekeepers for their ongoing and dedicated service in conflicts around the world. They discussed the killing of Private Sean Rooney in Lebanon in December 2022 and the serious injuries inflicted on Trooper Shane Kearney. The Taoiseach said there were frustrations in Ireland at slow progress in court proceedings. The Secretary General said he was very aware of the case and that it was a high priority for the UN. He once again expressed his condolences to the families of the Irish soldiers.

There was also a discussion on Ukraine and Russia’s war of aggression. The Taoiseach spoke about the recent peace summit in Switzerland and Ireland’s ongoing solidarity and support for Ukraine.