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01 Nov 2025
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01 Nov 2025
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Irish peacekeepers on duty
Defence Forces personnel from Kilkenny will take part in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), in what is likely to be the penultimate tour of duty for the force.
Some 370 personnel will be deployed on Friday, in Ireland’s longest ever peacekeeping mission.
Former Defence Forces member and Carlow/Kilkenny Fine Gael TD Catherine Callaghan said: “I want to wish all soldiers from Carlow and Kilkenny and across Ireland the very best today as they prepare to go to Lebanon.”
“With the conclusion of the UNIFIL mission at the end of 2026, this deployment takes on an even greater significance. The mission, in which Ireland has contributed to since 1958 is due to come to an end despite Ireland advocating strongly for continued mandate renewal.”
“This deployment will help bring this long and distinguished chapter of Irish peacekeeping towards a close. Our values of compassion, justice and helping those who face difficult times because of conflict will remain at the heart of legislation to reform overseas deployments and reinforce Ireland’s ability to pursue an independent foreign policy,” she added.
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It was feared that the mandate for the mission would be revoked immediately, but it has been extended until the end of next year before a gradual withdrawal in 2027. Despite efforts from Ireland and other countries to continue sending troops, pressure from the United States and Israel has been exerted to cease peacekeeping in Lebanon.
Irish troops have been stationed in the country for over 50 years with thousands serving there through the decades.
“Defence Forces personnel from 30 counties will be deployed, and we are grateful for their dedication and commitment to representing our values abroad,” Deputy Callaghan said. “For the eight soldiers from Carlow and Kilkenny, you are part of a mission of peace, humanity and hope, and we are thankful for the work you do,” she concluded.
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