Yesterday’s attack on our peacekeepers in southern Lebanon was a grave violation of UN Security Council resolution 1701, according to Social Democrats defence spokesperson Sinéad Gibney.
Deputy Gibney said:
“The protection of our defence forces partaking in a UNIFIL mission in Lebanon should always be our highest priority when it comes to peacekeeping.
“Any attack on a UN-mandated peacekeeping mission must be treated with the utmost seriousness – yesterday’s small arms fire directed towards our troops was intended to intimidate a force that’s primary function is to keep the peace.
“It is a great relief that the 127th Infantry Battalion are well and accounted for after sustaining this gunfire, and that the immediate action drills they initiated protected them from harm.
“I commend the bravery and courage of those stationed at Camp Shamrock, whose work goes a long way towards quelling conflict and unrest in the region.
“Ireland’s peacekeeping tradition must be preserved – it is invaluable to the international community’s efforts to establish harmony in areas which are susceptible to discord.”
December 5th, 2025