Israeli Defence Forces’ Actions Towards UN Peacekeepers

President Michael D Higgins has described an Israel Defence Forces (IDF) “threat” to a UN peacekeeping mission as “outrageous.” This statement follows reports that the IDF has called for the withdrawal of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the Irish Defence Forces from their posts in Lebanon amid rising tensions in the region.

President Higgins’ Reflections on Recent Developments

In his statement, President Higgins characterized this month as a “month of deep sorrow for many families,” with the anniversary of the October 7th attacks approaching. He noted, “This period will remember those innocent individuals, many of them young people, tragically killed while attending the Supernova Sukkot Gathering music festival in Israel on October 7th, the horrific murder and assault of so many others by Hamas, and the taking of hostages, whose safety remains a source of deep anxiety for their families.”

Condemnation of Threats to Peacekeeping Forces

President Higgins strongly condemned the Israeli Defence Forces for threatening peacekeepers charged with safeguarding vulnerable communities. “It is outrageous that the Israeli Defence Forces have threatened this peacekeeping mission and demanded they abandon the villages they are defending,” he stated. He criticized these actions as reckless, undermining the peacekeepers’ efforts to stabilize the region.

Impact of Collective Punishment

President Higgins further stressed the devastating consequences of the ongoing conflict, remarking, “We should not have arrived at this point, nor witnessed the horrific events that followed, including collective punishment, acts of vengeance, and the destruction of essential infrastructure, such as children’s education and healthcare.” He urged all parties to exercise restraint and emphasized the importance of preventing further loss of life and suffering.

Backing the Irish Defence Forces

President Higgins expressed his full support for the Irish Defence Forces stationed in Lebanon. He acknowledged the stress experienced by their families and commended the sacrifices made by Defence Forces personnel in protecting defenseless civilians in southern Lebanese villages. “Our Defence Forces members are risking their lives, and their families are enduring sacrifices, all in defense of civilians in southern Lebanon,” he said. He underlined the importance of ensuring the safety of the peacekeepers and providing them with the necessary support.

Irish Troops Serving with UNIFIL

Ireland contributes 347 troops to the UNIFIL mission, which consists of around 10,000 soldiers operating in Lebanon. President Higgins criticized Israel’s demand for the complete withdrawal of UNIFIL, stating, “Indeed, Israel is insisting that the entire UNIFIL mission, which operates under UN mandates, withdraw from the area.” He described this demand as an affront to the United Nations, its member states, and the peacekeepers who risk their lives to protect vulnerable populations.

Solidarity with Peacekeepers in the Region

President Higgins expressed his solidarity with the UN peacekeepers, saying, “I am confident that the bravery displayed by our troops and their colleagues is in the thoughts and prayers of all who value peace, both at home and abroad.” He highlighted the critical role of these peacekeepers in maintaining stability and protecting civilians, calling for respect for their mission and dedication.

Denouncing Threats to International Bodies

President Higgins underscored that threatening a UN peacekeeping mission is not only an attack on an important global institution but also on the soldiers and their families who serve in the cause of peace. He said, “This is not only an insult to the most significant global institution to which 193 nations are committed, but it is also a grave insult to the soldiers and their families who have taken on great personal risk for the sake of peace and the protection of the vulnerable.” He emphasized the need to respect international obligations and support those who dedicate their lives to peacekeeping.

President Higgins’ comments represent a strong condemnation of the IDF’s actions, calling for adherence to international norms in conflict situations and reinforcing Ireland’s dedication to peace and stability in the region.