Twenty-two soldiers from Offaly to be deployed to Lebanon

Defence Forces personnel from Offaly will take part in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), in what is likely to be the penultimate tour of duty, said a Fine Gael TD.

Deputy John Clendennen said some 370 Irish personnel will be deployed to the UNIFIL mission today, in Ireland’s longest ever peacekeeping mission.

“I want to wish all soldiers from Offaly 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 UNIFIL mission, in which Ireland has contributed to since 1958, is due to come to an end at the end of next year, 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.

“Defence Forces personnel from 30 counties will be deployed, and we are grateful for their dedication and commitment to representing our values abroad.

“For the 22 soldiers in Offaly, you are part of a mission of peace, humanity, and hope, and we are thankful for the work you do”, concluded Deputy Clendennen.