The Daily Star Ireland
On May 29, 2025, Irish peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were subjected to gunfire from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) while assisting civilians near the village of Yaroun, approximately 10 kilometers from Camp Shamrock, the Irish base along the Blue Line.
The joint patrol, comprising six Irish soldiers and members of the Lebanese Armed Forces, was engaged in humanitarian activities when up to 30 rounds were fired in their direction over a span of nine minutes. All shots landed within 50 meters of the unit. No injuries were reported, but the patrol was compelled to withdraw from the area.
In response, the Irish government issued a formal diplomatic protest, known as a démarche, through the United Nations. Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Simon Harris authorized the protest after receiving a detailed briefing from Brigadier General Rossa Mulcahy, the incoming Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces. The correspondence emphasized that the incident was entirely unacceptable concerning the safety of peacekeepers and underscored that such actions must not recur.
Context of Rising Tensions and Prior Incidents
This event marks the second time in May that Irish personnel have been fired upon by the IDF. Earlier in the month, two Irish diplomats were among a European Union delegation that came under fire during a visit to Jenin in the West Bank. Although no injuries occurred, the incident drew condemnation from Irish officials, who labeled it completely unacceptable.
The region has experienced escalating tensions, with increased hostilities along the Israel-Lebanon border. UNIFIL, established in 1978, has faced challenges in maintaining peace and security in the area. Irish troops have been part of UNIFIL’s efforts to monitor the cessation of hostilities and support the Lebanese government’s authority in southern Lebanon.
The Irish Defence Forces continue to monitor the situation closely and remain committed to their peacekeeping mission. The government has reiterated its call for all parties to respect the safety and security of UN personnel operating in volatile regions.
