Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 July 2026
30. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on the current war on Lebanon; the need to ensure respect for Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity; the need for Israel to respect the terms of the peace deal; and the need to ensure lasting peace in the region.; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50286/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe current war in Lebanon, the latest of many, was triggered by Hezbollah recklessly and gratuitously attacking targets in Israel, after Israel attacked Iran. Once again, they have deliberately dragged Lebanon and its people into war, putting at risk all the progress which Lebanon has made over the last year. I have condemned Hezbollah's attacks on Israel, called on them to cease and to commit to disarm.
However, the Government has also made clear that Israel's military response has been wholly disproportionate and utterly disinterested in the effect upon the people of Lebanon. It is completely contrary to the principles of proportionality and distinction between civil and military targets which are obligatory under international humanitarian law in all conflict situations. It is wholly unacceptable to force the entire civilian population of a large part of Lebanon to flee their homes, and to destroy their villages and prevent their return. I condemn all such attacks on civilian targets on either side of the border.
It was very welcome that the agreement between the United States and Iran to end their war also extended to Lebanon, and it is important that that provision is respected and enacted. Both sides, Israel and Hezbollah, must cease their attacks on each others territory, and Israel must withdraw its forces and respect the sovereignty of Lebanon, just as it demands for itself.
I therefore welcomed the achievement on 26 June of a framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the United States. I hope this first step can lead to an end to military actions by all sides, enable access for humanitarian assistance, and pave the way for a lasting peace which respects Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The future of Lebanon must be for its people alone to decide.
