Tánaiste Simon Harris has called for urgent de-escalation in the Middle East following overnight US military strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, warning that the risk of dangerous escalation between Iran and Israel is now “more real and more likely than ever before.”
Harris said he is “closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East following military action by the United States on three nuclear facilities in Iran overnight,” emphasising Ireland’s commitment to diplomatic solutions over military action.
Simon Harris, Tánaiste:
“The risk of an extremely dangerous spiral of escalation in relation to Iran and Israel is now more real and more likely than ever before. There is an urgent need for de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy.”
The US strikes targeted Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities early Sunday morning local time, with President Trump calling the operation a “spectacular military success” in a White House address.
Harris stressed that Ireland and Europe are “fully united in the clear view” that Iran should not be allowed to possess nuclear weapons, but emphasised that “the way to address this was always through a negotiated solution.”
Concern for Irish Peacekeepers
An Tánaiste expressed particular concern for Irish peacekeeping forces stationed in Southern Lebanon. Ireland currently has approximately 300-380 personnel deployed with UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon), serving as part of the 126th Infantry Battalion.
Simon Harris:
“I am also very conscious of the large presence of Irish peacekeeping troops in Southern Lebanon and their safety is of paramount importance. I continue to receive regular updates from the Chief of Staff on measures being taken to keep them safe at this volatile time.”
Irish troops have faced recent challenges in Lebanon, with peacekeepers coming under fire from Israeli forces near the village of Yaroun in May, an incident Harris described as “utterly inappropriate, utterly unacceptable.”
Embassy Staff Evacuated
Harris confirmed that staff from Ireland’s Embassy in Tehran departed Iran on Friday, ahead of the escalating tensions. The Irish government is also supporting Irish citizens who wish to leave the region.
The Tánaiste is scheduled to travel to Brussels today for an emergency meeting of EU Foreign Ministers to discuss the crisis and coordinate Europe’s response to the rapidly developing situation.
IAEA Warning
Harris referenced the International Atomic Energy Agency’s statement as “a stark reminder of these dangers,” noting that while there is “no initial reporting of any increase in off-site radiation levels,” this could “easily change should further escalation occur.”
The strikes represent a significant escalation in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, which has been intensifying since Israel began operations targeting Iranian nuclear facilities earlier this month.