Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
Question:69. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on the current situation in Lebanon and the Government's position regarding same. [69244/26]
View answerThursday, 1 October 2026
Questions (69)
Written answers
Ireland has welcomed the trilateral framework agreement reached between the US, Israel and Lebanon, and the Israeli commitment to begin withdrawing from Lebanon. Its implementation by all concerned is essential if a sustainable peace is to be achieved.
However it is clear that the ongoing attacks by Israel in southern Lebanon are not helping and are undermining the prospect of a meaningful peace. This continued violation of Lebanese sovereignty is unacceptable.
Ireland has been clear that Israel needs to fully withdraw its military presence from southern Lebanon. The creation of a 'buffer zone' akin to that used by the IDF in Gaza is completely unacceptable, undermines the fragile ceasefire agreement and jeopardises the process of rebuilding Lebanon.
Ireland has consistently and unequivocally condemned Hezbollah for its attacks on Israel, and has stressed the need for it to take steps towards disarmament immediately.
All sides have an obligation to maintain the ceasefire and abide by UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Ireland remains committed to supporting the security forces in fulfilling their role in securing Lebanon and encourages all political parties’ participation in discussions to ensure a full functioning democracy.
Ireland will continue to work with Lebanon, and with EU and international partners to support Lebanon’s future peace and security. I made this point when I met with the Lebanese Foreign Minister in New York, during UN High Level Week.
On the issue of UNIFIL, Ireland can be proud of the role we have played in the UNIFIL peacekeeping operation since 1978. I deeply regret the fact that the UNIFIL mission is coming to an end. It is essential that we agree a new future mission as soon as possible. I discussed this in my recent meeting with UN Under Secretary General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix.
Concerning a future EU CDSP training mission, Ireland fully supports such a mission as a means of contributing to peace and security in southern Lebanon.
Ireland will continue to work to ensure that the government and the people of Lebanon and are supported in their efforts to secure peace and stability.