Tánaiste holds talks over Lebanon peacekeeping renewal
Next month at the UN headquarters in New York, the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) will be up for discussion at the Security Council.
There is concern that the 12-month roll-over of the UNIFIL mandate could be in jeopardy given strong criticism of the blue helmet operation by Israel and the fact that its ally, the United States, could pull support from the mission.
The Tánaiste spoke with his counterparts in Italy and Lebanon, as well as the UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre LaCroix.
The discussion with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani is particularly important given the recent appointment of an Italian Major General as the UNIFIL Force Commander.
Later Mr Harris will hold further talks, including with the French foreign minister whose country is leading the bid to ensure the UNIFIL mandate continues.
Earlier this week, Poland gave its full backing to the renewal of the UNIFIL mission - a country that works hand-in-hand with Irish peacekeepers in southern Lebanon.
The Tánaiste also told Cabinet on Tuesday that the UNIFIL mission is vital for the morale of Irish troops, and most importantly, Ireland's unwavering commitment to international peace and security.
In his call with Lebanese foreign minister, Mr Harris also raised the case of Private Seán Rooney, who was killed while out on patrol in southern Lebanon in December 2022.
The Irish Government has expressed concern at the length of time it is taking for a trial to proceed and continues to liaise with the late Private Rooney's family.
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