Ireland demands justice for death of its peacekeeper in Lebanon
Ireland’s Foreign Minister (FM), Micheál Martin, has demanded justice for the death of an Irish peacekeeper, expressing concern over Lebanon’s slow progress in prosecuting those responsible, according to Asharq Al-Awsat and agencies on May 20th.
The FM added that he was “very, very concerned” by Lebanon’s handling of the tragedy.
Martin’s comments came on his visit to Lebanon where he met with Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, and a representative of Lebanon’s defense ministry, to explore the case further.
Private Seán Rooney, 24, from Newtown Cunningham, Ireland, was killed on December 14, 2022, in a targeted attack while traveling with other UNIFIL peacekeepers to Beirut airport.
The vehicle transporting Rooney reportedly took a detour through an area in southern Lebanon outside of UNIFIL’s control.
A half-year investigation led to charges against five Lebanese men, all allegedly affiliated to Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.
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The militant group denied involvement.
Only one suspect, Mohammed Ayyad, was arrested, but he was later released on bail due to health issues.
The other suspects – Ali Khalifeh, Ali Salman, Hussein Salman, and Mustafa Salman – remain free.
“We want justice to be done” Martin told press reporters.
“We understand the separation of powers. But we are concerned at the slow place of the trial. And the Irish people want justice”, he added.
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UNIFIL, established to oversee the withdrawal of Israeli troops in 1978 saw an expanded role in 2006 following the previous war between Israel and Lebanon.
Recent tensions with Israel and Hezbollah’s fierce border war, sparked by Hezbollah in retaliation for Israel’s war on Gaza, have threatened regional security.
As part of a potential peace-plan envisioned by Western powers and the United Nations, UNIFIL has been urged to take on a greater role in maintaining peace in southern Lebanon.
Asharq Al-Awsat / Agencies
