Taoiseach speaks with Lebanese prime minister as two leaders welcome ceasefire

Lebanese prime minister, Najib Mikati who met with Taoiseach Simon Harris at Government Buildings back in October. Picture: Sam Boal/Collins Photos

Taoiseach Simon Harris has spoken with the prime minister of Lebanon this afternoon, as the two leaders welcomed the ceasefire coming into effect yesterday.

Mr Harris said that Ireland was ready to assist Lebanon in any way possible, which included the Defence Forces continued prescence as part of the UNIFIL mission.

The two leaders – Mr Harris and Najib Mikati – held the call just weeks after the Lebanese Prime Minister visited Dublin.

“It is more important than ever now that UNIFIL be allowed to fulfil its mission, monitoring the cessation of hostilities and confirming the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon,” a government spokesperson said.

“UNIFIL will also have an important role to play in assisting the government of Lebanon in ensuring the return of its effective authority in the area.” 

Mr Harris also thanked Mr Mikati for the Lebanese government facilitating a recent rotation of Irish soldiers from the country, with 200 members of the Defence Forces arriving home on Monday after a six-month deployment.

The Taoiseach added that Ireland will continue to provide humanitarian aid to Lebanon and will work with other countries to ensure aid is surged into the country “so that it can support those whose homes have been destroyed as well as begin the vital task of reconstruction”.

“The Taoiseach also expressed his hope that this new period of calm can be used to improve the political situation in Lebanon, making the appointment of a new President possible,” the spokesperson added.

Mr Mikati thanked Ireland for it’s “long standing friendship” and expressed hope that “all parties will make the most of this important opportunity to build a lasting peace”.