Ireland Proposes EU-Led Peacekeeping Mission in Lebanon as UN Prepares Exit

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Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris announced on Friday that he will propose replacing the long-running UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon with an EU-led mission. The new initiative would primarily focus on training and supporting the Lebanese army rather than deploying a large foreign military presence.

Harris emphasized that Ireland, which has had a long history of contributions to international peacekeeping, sees this as a way to ensure continued stability in Lebanon while aligning with European Union frameworks.

UN Peacekeeping Force Winding Down

The plan comes as the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which has been active since 1978, prepares for a gradual reduction. Earlier this year, the UN Security Council voted to extend UNIFIL’s mandate until the end of 2026. After that, the 10,000-strong force will begin a year-long phased withdrawal.

This move marks a significant shift in international security arrangements in Lebanon, where UNIFIL has played a key role in monitoring hostilities between Lebanon and Israel, supporting civilian safety, and assisting the Lebanese Armed Forces.

A Smaller, More Targeted EU Role

Unlike the large-scale UN operation, the proposed EU mission would be smaller in size and more specialized in its scope. According to Harris, the focus would not be on direct peacekeeping duties but rather on capacity building and helping Lebanese forces strengthen their skills, improve logistics, and develop strategies for long-term security.

The EU has previously run similar missions in other conflict-affected regions, providing training, advisory support, and limited operational assistance instead of large-scale troop deployments.

Balancing Regional Stability and International Support

Lebanon continues to face political and economic instability, with its armed forces under pressure to maintain order amid regional tensions. International observers believe that a gradual handover from a UN-led to an EU-led mission could prevent a sudden security vacuum while keeping international involvement intact, albeit at a reduced level.

Ireland’s proposal will now be discussed among EU member states and presented formally as UNIFIL’s timeline for withdrawal moves forward.