Ireland Proposes EU Mission to Replace UN Peacekeeping in Lebanon

Ireland has proposed an EU-led mission to replace the United Nations peacekeeping operation in Lebanon as the UN prepares to begin a year-long withdrawal process. On March 14, 2024, the United Nations Security Council unanimously approved the extension of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) until the end of 2026, after which the mission will gradually wind down.

The proposal, initiated by Irish Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Simon Harris, aims to establish an international assistance mission under the EU framework that focuses on training the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). This plan will be discussed at an EU foreign affairs and defence ministers’ summit on March 15, 2024, amid pressing global issues, including the situations in Ukraine and Gaza.

Ireland’s initiative follows concerns from EU officials regarding the LAF’s capacity to take over the responsibilities currently held by UNIFIL, which consists of approximately 10,000 personnel, including 348 from Ireland. One significant challenge for the LAF will be managing the disarmament of the militant group Hezbollah, which maintains a strong presence in southern Lebanon.

Harris emphasized that the EU mission would build on previous military training efforts in areas such as Mali, Bosnia, and Ukraine. He highlighted Ireland’s contributions to these missions, noting that the new training effort in Lebanon would likely involve a smaller troop presence compared to the existing UNIFIL forces.

During the summit, Harris will advocate for EU member states to collaborate in training, equipping, and enhancing the capabilities of the LAF. He expressed confidence in adapting the successful model of the EU Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine, which has trained thousands of Ukrainian troops in Germany and Poland. Harris stated, “Our Defence Forces participate in such missions in Bosnia, in the Mediterranean, and in the EU Military Assistance Mission for Ukraine. We take particular pride in that mission as an expression of concrete EU support for Ukraine and its armed forces.”

The proposed Lebanon mission would fall under the EU’s Common Defence and Security Policy. Harris anticipates further discussions in the coming weeks to refine the proposal and garner support from other EU nations.

As the international community navigates the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics, Ireland’s initiative reflects a commitment to maintaining stability in Lebanon and supporting the LAF in an increasingly challenging environment.