Press release
Taoiseach Simon Harris speaks to Prime Minister Mikati of Lebanon
From Department of the Taoiseach
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of the Taoiseach
Published on
Last updated on
Taoiseach Simon Harris spoke by phone today with Prime Minister Mikati of Lebanon to discuss the escalating violence in Lebanon and the wider Middle East as well as Irish Troops serving in UNIFIL.
The Taoiseach expressed Ireland’s serious concerns at the loss of life and deteriorating humanitarian situation, with 1 million people displaced in Lebanon to date.
The Taoiseach condemned the actions of Hezbollah in firing missiles into Israel and expressed his condolences to the Prime Minister on the significant number of civilian deaths resulting from Israel’s bombardment and military incursion.
The Taoiseach expressed Ireland’s continued commitment to supporting Lebanon, confirming that Ireland has provided a further €1 million in aid, bringing total assistance to Lebanon to €5 million in 2024.
The leaders discussed the importance of UNIFIL’s mission in Lebanon, and their commitment to the full implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1701. The Taoiseach emphasised that the safety of the 380 Irish troops serving with UNIFIL is of paramount importance as well as the ability to carry out their mandate.
The Taoiseach re-iterated his deep concern that the situation could spiral out of control and risk a wider regional war. He called on all sides to step back from the brink and to agree an immediate ceasefire, stressing that what is needed urgently is a political and diplomatic solution that ensures security for Lebanon and Israel and that enables Lebanon to rebuild and prosper.
The Taoiseach reassured Prime Minister Mikati that this is Ireland’s focus, working with partners in the EU and at the UN.