Trump meets with Blair and Kushner to discuss Gaza

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August 29, 2025

Trump holds Gaza meeting with Blair, Kushner — Smoke rises over residential areas after Israeli army attacks on ez-Zeytun neighborhood in Gaza City

Inside the War Room: Trump, Blair, and Kushner’s Controversial Vision for Gaza’s Future

On a brisk day in Washington, a discreet policy meeting brought together some of the most polarizing figures in recent Middle Eastern politics—former U.S. President Donald Trump, Britain’s ex-Prime Minister Tony Blair, and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and former Middle East envoy. Their focus? Gaza: its ongoing devastation, the desperate humanitarian crisis, and what might lie beyond the smoke and rubble.

This was no casual conversation. At the heart of the meeting were the harrowing hostage crisis, escalating food insecurity, and the thorny topic of Gaza’s post-war reconstruction. Though a senior White House official downplayed it as “simply a policy meeting,” the stakes were anything but ordinary.

The Players and Their Pasts

Donald Trump, whose second term has been overshadowed by the Gaza conflict, entered this meeting carrying the weight of a broken promise. Back in his campaign days, he vowed a swift end to hostilities. Yet, seven months later, the ceasefire that marked the start of his term shattered—Israeli strikes on March 18 killed nearly 400 Palestinians and unleashed a spiraling cycle of violence.

Tony Blair, never far from controversy, joined the table with the ghosts of Iraq still in tow. Blair’s leadership during the 2003 Iraq invasion received sharp global condemnation, a legacy coloring perceptions of his involvement in Gaza’s future. Alongside him, Jared Kushner, the architect of Trump’s initial Middle East peace gambit, brought with him proposals that have ignited fierce critique.

“When these figures come together, it’s more than just policy—it’s history in the making, or perhaps history repeating itself,” observes Dr. Amina Sahar, a Middle East analyst based in Amman. “They bring decades of experience, but also decades of wisdom questioned.”

Starvation and Sorrow: Gaza’s Harrowing Reality

Outside the polished walls of Washington’s policy rooms, the human toll of the Gaza war unfolds in heartbreaking clarity. Images of starving children—faces hollowed by hunger and eyes searching for relief—have spread across global newsfeeds like wildfire, provoking waves of outrage and grief.

In February, Trump unveiled a staggering and widely condemned proposal: a U.S. takeover of Gaza coupled with the permanent displacement of Palestinian residents. Rights organizations and the United Nations quickly decried the plan as tantamount to “ethnic cleansing,” pointing out that forcible population transfers are prohibited under international law.

“We saw an idea once framed as redevelopment turn into a discussion of forced relocation. That’s not rebuilding—it’s erasing,” says Layla Hasan, a Palestinian rights advocate in Gaza City. “Turning Gaza into a ‘Riviera’ is a fantasy built on the backs of millions who just want to live in their homes.”

The Riviera Mirage

Trump’s vision of Gaza reborn as the “Riviera of the Middle East” echoes Kushner’s previously floated concept to clear the territory of Palestinians and transform it into prime waterfront property. Yet, according to a Financial Times report from July, Tony Blair’s institute appeared to distance itself from these darker undercurrents.

The Tony Blair Institute indicated it had engaged with various groups on Gaza reconstruction but “none have included the idea of forcible relocation of people.” This nuance, however, struggles to quiet concerns that redevelopment plans may disregard the rights and dignity of Gaza’s displaced population.

Diplomatic Conversations and Stark Realities

On another front, the U.S. State Department confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio had met Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to discuss Gaza and broader regional dynamics. When pressed about prospects for a Palestinian state, Saar delivered a blunt answer: none.

This stance contrasts sharply with recent declarations from several U.S. allies who have moved towards recognizing Palestinian sovereignty—a signal that the international community remains sharply divided.

The Toll of War: Numbers That Haunt

Since October 2023, Gaza has borne the brunt of an unprecedented assault. Over 62,000 Palestinians have perished, according to Gaza health authorities—a staggering figure that reflects not only the violence itself but the depth of a growing humanitarian emergency.

The entire population of Gaza has been internally displaced, their homes and streets swallowed by the wreckage of what once was a bustling, vibrant coastal enclave. Hunger and disease stalk the survivors, while accusations of genocide and war crimes weigh heavily on the international conscience. Israel denies these charges but faces mounting scrutiny in global courts.

The conflict’s latest flare-up was ignited by a brutal Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and took roughly 250 hostages back in October—deep wounds on both sides that have only hardened the spiral of violence.

At the Crossroads of Hope and Despair

What unfolds now is a crucial crossroads—not only for Gaza but for the future contours of peace in one of the world’s most intractable conflicts. Can humanitarian aid scale up fast enough to stem the tide of suffering? Will diplomatic engagement deliver real progress toward a lasting resolution? Or will plans riddled with displacement and redevelopment fantasies deepen the divides?

For the citizens buried beneath these headlines, the questions are heartbreakingly personal: When will their children eat again? When will their homes be safe? When will the world finally heed their cries?

Globally, these dilemmas touch on a series of profound issues: the ethics of intervention, the limits of power in conflict zones, the responsibilities of former leaders, and the urgency of international solidarity. As global citizens, how do we respond when peace feels so elusive, and old scars so raw?

In Washington’s halls or Gaza’s shattered streets, history is being written every day. It’s a story of conflict and courage, despair and determination, death and perhaps—just perhaps—the faintest whisper of hope.

What’s Next?

The international community grapples with how to balance sovereignty, humanitarian aid, and long-term peacebuilding.
Local voices and Palestinian perspectives must be centered in any post-war reconstruction plan to ensure dignity and rights.
Global citizens can push for transparency, accountability, and informed dialogue from their governments and leaders.

So, what do you think? How should the world navigate rebuilding a future for Gaza without repeating the mistakes of the past? Can Washington, Jerusalem, and Ramallah find common ground amid decades of mistrust? Your thoughts and reflections matter as this saga continues to unfold.

What is the new tax policy for shipments sent to the US?

By

hanad

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August 29, 2025

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What's the tax change for parcels being sent to the US? — Goods shipped through the postal system to the US from Ireland worth over €85 face a 15% tariff

The End of a Global Shipping Sweet Spot: How New US Tariffs Are Reshaping the Parcel Landscape

Imagine ordering a cozy Aran wool jumper from Ireland for a loved one in America, only to discover that what was once a seamless gift now comes with an unexpected 15% tax slapped on top. For decades, a quiet but impactful rule allowed parcels valued under $800 — about €685 — to cross the Atlantic without tariffs, fostering connections and commerce between Europe and the United States. But as of this month, that era has ended.

This is more than just a small bureaucratic adjustment. It’s a shift rippling across family relationships, small businesses, and international commerce alike. Let’s pull back the curtain on what this change means, why it matters, and how it echoes broader global dynamics.

A Quiet Transformation That Hits Home

From today, packages posted from Europe to the US valued over $800 will no longer enjoy their tax-free ride. And that’s not all — smaller letters, documents, and gifts under $100 (roughly €85) remain exempt, but anything above that gets hit with a 15% tariff. So, sending that special gift — say, an Irish jersey or handcrafted goods — becomes more complicated and expensive for recipients in America.

An Post, Ireland’s national postal service, reassures customers that despite this tax imposition enforced by the US government, their parcel services remain operational. “We’re committed to maintaining those connections, no matter the hurdles,” says Garrett Bridgeman, An Post’s Managing Director of Mails and Parcels.

But the reality is complicated, and many small businesses and individuals will feel the pinch.

Behind the Scenes: An Post’s Adaptation

Garrett Bridgeman points out a silver lining: “99% of the gifts sent to the US are under $100, so for personal parcels, the impact is limited.” Yet, the real ripple effect is among businesses trading online with US customers, forced now to reckon with the new tariffs.

Drawing on An Post’s post-Brexit experience, the postal service has rolled out new systems to handle customs clearance and tariff collection efficiently. When an American customer orders a product exceeding the threshold, they receive notifications from An Post with reminders, and the duty payment must be cleared within five days. Failing that, the parcel is sent back to the sender.

It’s a pragmatic approach, but the financial and logistical headaches for businesses are undeniable.

On the Ground: Small Businesses and Clubs Feel the Squeeze

Take the story of Bohemians Football Club in Dublin. Known not just for their sportsmanship but for community connections and charitable collaborations embodied in their jersey sales, the US has become one of their top markets. Daniel Lambert, COO of Bohemians, voices the frustration of many:

“The US represents about 15% of our annual sales. These are mostly low-value packages — football shirts, memorabilia — but now everything above that €85 limit faces extra tariffs.”

For now, their online store has suspended US orders, navigating a landscape clouded in uncertainty. Lambert continues, “The challenge lies not just in cost, but in a complex logistics chain that could easily be broken by too many customs hurdles. Our fans and supporters shouldn’t have to second-guess their orders because of red tape.”

Such stories echo across the digital shelves of Irish entrepreneurs and exporters trying to maintain livelihood and connection in an increasingly fragmented global market.

Numbers Tell the Story

Over 1 million letters and parcels leave Ireland bound for the US each year.
Trade statistics reveal that small and micro businesses account for roughly 30% of Ireland’s exports to the US, many relying on postal services.
Smaller packages under $100 still pass tax-free, but for higher-value goods, the extra 15% fee is a hurdle newly introduced.

A Global Domino Effect: From Europe to Asia, Borders Are Closing

It’s not only an Irish story. Postal services across Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, Denmark, Japan, South Korea, and Australia have paused parcel deliveries to the US amid the confusion and increased administrative burdens.

Meanwhile, private carriers like FedEx and UPS continue their routes but pass the tariff cost to recipients. For many postal operators, the question remains: Is this a permanent shift or a temporary headache awaiting policy reversal?

Tariffs are, historically, levers of political will and negotiation. Remember how the Trump administration’s tariff policies have shifted unpredictably, influenced as much by diplomacy as domestic interests? Some insiders speculate that Washington’s move aligns with broader protections for American industries and attempts to curb the flow of goods — especially from China — entering states via European channels.

What About the People on the Receiving End?

For the millions of Irish Americans or those with familial ties across the Atlantic, this new tax disrupts more than commerce — it fractures personal connections. Mary O’Connell, a Bronx resident, shares her thoughts:

“Every Christmas, my mother sends gifts from Ireland. Now, even a simple sweater could cost me extra, which is frustrating. It feels like walls are rising where bridges used to be.”

It begs the question: In an era of globalization, what do such tariff walls mean for human relationships? For cultural exchange? For the simple joy of sending a heartfelt gift?

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for the Future?

This new chapter in international postal relations invites reflection on the larger canvas of global trade and diplomacy. As countries grapple with protectionism and recalibrated borders, the everyday impact can be profound.

Will this tariff inspire innovation in ecommerce and logistics, pushing businesses towards smarter supply chains or alternative shipping methods? Or does it risk choking smaller operators who can least afford extra costs?

For consumers, the decision arrives in a quiet moment at a checkout or in front of a laptop, often hidden amid the rush of holiday shopping or a yearning for connection. Yet, these incremental barriers accumulate, reshaping how we maintain ties across continents.

Invitation to Reflection

As you consider the packages you send or receive, have you thought about the unseen stories they carry? What impact might such tariff changes have on your own relationships or experiences?

In the end, this isn’t just a story about parcels and tariffs. It’s about human connection amid a shifting political landscape, and how the policies drawn in distant boardrooms ripple into our homes, our businesses, and our hearts.

As the world navigates these new waters, the hope remains that the currents of commerce and compassion might find a way to flow together, undeterred by the barriers of bureaucracy.

EU or Russia: Moldova’s election to decide its future direction

By

hanad

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August 29, 2025

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EU or Russia: Moldova's election to determine its path — Moldovans take part in a celebration on the country's 34th Independence Day during a concert in the front of the Moldovan government headquarters in Chisinau

Moldova at a Crossroads: The Unfolding Struggle for Independence and Identity

On a crisp August morning, as Moldova marked its 34th year of independence, a palpable sense of urgency hung in the air. Far beyond the usual celebrations that accompany the shedding of Soviet-era chains, this Independence Day felt like a pivotal moment in the small nation’s stormy journey—a journey still marred by the shadows of larger powers vying for influence.

President Maia Sandu stood at the forefront of that day’s events, flanked by three of Europe’s most prominent leaders: Germany’s Friedrich Merz, France’s Emmanuel Macron, and Poland’s Donald Tusk. Their presence was no mere courtesy; it was a clarion call resonating with the shared hope—and caution—that Moldova’s next steps would reverberate across the continent.

“There is no alternative to Europe,” President Sandu declared with unwavering resolve, a statement loaded with history, hope, and a heavy dose of warning. “Independence is not guaranteed.”

The Stakes of an Election Under Siege

In less than a month, Moldova is set to hold parliamentary elections. What might seem routine in other parts of the world is anything but here. Caught between the European Union to the west and the devastating conflict in Ukraine just beyond its borders, Moldova finds itself on a precarious fault line, where the direction of its future identity will be fiercely contested.

“This election is a battle between liberty and peace on one side—and war and death on the other,” Sandu has asserted, encapsulating the existential threat felt by many Moldovans.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed this concern, highlighting a “very clear trend of pro-Russian forces active” within Moldova’s political landscape. French President Emmanuel Macron accused the Kremlin of spinning deceitful narratives, casting the European Union as an oppressor rather than an ally. Meanwhile, Germany’s Friedrich Merz pledged support for Moldova’s hopes to join the EU.

This solidarity from Europe’s top officials isn’t merely symbolic—it’s a lifeline, an anchor for a country fighting to escape the tug of Moscow’s long shadow.

Between Romania and Russia: Moldova’s Complex Identity

Moldova’s geographical and cultural position is as complex as its political one. Nestled between Romania—an EU member—and Ukraine, a nation gripped by war, Moldova hosts both a Romanian-speaking majority as well as a sizable Russian-speaking minority. The country’s post-Soviet history has been a pendulum swing between pro-Russian and pro-European governments, each shift a reflection of deeper tensions within the populace and geopolitics.

Control over Moldova has never been about the nation alone: the Kremlin’s influence seeps deep into the country through multiple channels.

A frozen conflict continues in Transnistria, a narrow strip of land where Russian troops remain stationed, defying Moldova’s sovereignty.
The country’s energy dependence on Russian gas gives Moscow considerable leverage.
Russian intelligence and propaganda campaigns regularly disrupt Moldova’s political landscape.

Hard Numbers, Hard Realities

According to Moldova’s national police, more than 130,000 citizens were bribed through Kremlin-linked channels during last year’s referendum and presidential elections. These votes were strategically targeted to favor pro-Russian candidates and weaken Moldova’s EU ambitions.

The spotlight falls sharply on figures like Ilan Shor, a shadowy oligarch sentenced to 15 years in absentia on fraud charges. Shor’s role in purported vote-buying schemes and his open allegiance to Moscow are emblematic of the dark undercurrents attempting to sway Moldova’s destiny. Just recently, he was reported to have offered monthly payments of $3,000 to citizens willing to join anti-government protests ahead of the election—a testament to the lengths Russia’s allies in Moldova will go to disrupt the democratic process.

Europe Beckons, but Challenges Abound

Despite these daunting challenges, Moldova’s push toward the European Union has never been stronger than since Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The war next door has jolted public opinion, bolstered a sense of shared fate with Europe, and given fresh impetus to domestic reforms.

In a referendum last year, Moldovans narrowly voted in favor of EU integration, re-electing Maia Sandu, who champions transparency, anti-corruption measures, and closer ties with the West. Yet recent polls suggest her Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) may face an uphill climb in securing a parliamentary majority.

Corruption, poverty, and a relentless tide of emigration—especially among the young—paint a stark picture of the challenges Moldova faces internally. But beyond these hurdles looms the vast, unrelenting interference from Russian-aligned forces determined to undermine the country’s sovereignty.

The Kremlin’s Shadow Play

Moscow’s rhetoric portrays Moldova as unjustly persecuting pro-Russian leaders, especially following the imprisonment of Evgenia Gutul, accused of funneling millions of undeclared Russian funds to support Shor’s political network. The Kremlin also sounds alarms over rumors—whether real or exaggerated—of Moldova moving toward unification with Romania, a prospect fiercely opposed in Moscow.

For many Moldovans, holding a Romanian passport isn’t just a bureaucratic detail; it’s a lifeline granting freedom of movement and opportunity across the European Union. Yet it also highlights the tangled web of identity this country navigates—a bridge between two worlds.

A Fragile Peace in the Heart of Europe

Vladimir Putin’s nostalgic regret over the Soviet Union’s collapse isn’t a secret. His strategic ambitions have been played out in recent conflicts in Georgia and Ukraine, where former Soviet republics were pulled back into Moscow’s orbit through a mixture of force and political pressure.

In Moldova, a direct military invasion seems unlikely—for now. Yet President Sandu warns of a different kind of warfare: a “hybrid war” waged through intimidation, disinformation, and proxy actors, threatening to turn this peaceful nation into a flashpoint.

“If pro-Russian forces seize power,” Sandu cautions, “Moldova could become the Kremlin’s base for destabilizing Europe.”

What Lies Ahead?

As you read this, consider the enormity of Moldova’s predicament. A country carving out its identity in the shadow of giants—caught between hope and history, between Europe and Eurasia, democracy and autocracy.

To an outsider, Moldova might appear as just a speck on the continent’s vast map. But its struggle is emblematic of the larger global tensions playing out today—between sovereignty and influence, freedom and coercion, peace and conflict.

What does independence truly mean when the ghosts of past empires linger so powerfully? Can the will of ordinary people, like the fishermen on the Dniester River or the shopkeepers in Chișinău’s markets, resist the tides of external meddling and internal struggle?

As the election draws near, Moldova stands at a crossroads, inviting us all to reflect on the fragile nature of freedom and the enduring human spirit that fights to secure it.

Sweden and the Netherlands urge halt to EU trade with Israel

By

hanad

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August 28, 2025

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Sweden, Netherlands call to suspend EU trade with Israel — The joint letter also accused Israel of failing to implement a July agreement with the EU on increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza

A Bold Stand in Europe: Sweden and the Netherlands Demand an EU Trade Freeze with Israel Amid Gaza Crisis

Behind diplomatic facades and polished corridors of power, a quiet but potent upheaval is stirring across Europe. Sweden and the Netherlands, two stalwarts known for their commitment to human rights and international law, have dared to break ranks and challenge the European Union’s current stance on Israel, igniting a fierce debate that transcends borders.

In a joint letter that landed with the weight of a thunderclap in the hands of the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, these two nations lay bare a mounting frustration — one rooted in what they describe as an “extremely disturbing and intolerable” humanitarian situation in Gaza. More than that, they are sounding the alarm over Israel’s controversial plans for new settlements in the West Bank, moves that critics warn threaten to make a viable Palestinian state impossible.

The Heart of the Matter: Why Now?

This letter, seen by global media including RTÉ News, is no small gesture. It calls for something unprecedented: the suspension of the trade chapter of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. For context, this agreement underpins the economic and political relationship between the EU, Israel, and Palestinian territories, facilitating trade, cooperation, and dialogue. Its suspension would rattle not only diplomatic ties but also economic flows — a clear signal that Sweden and the Netherlands are willing to bet on principle over politics.

Why such a drastic step? The two foreign ministers, Ruben Brekelmans of the Netherlands and Maria Malmer Stenergard of Sweden, highlight several core issues. Israel’s failure to honor a July agreement aimed at boosting humanitarian aid to Gaza is a breach in their eyes, undermining trust and deepening the suffering of civilians trapped in a blockade and conflict zone. Furthermore, the E1 Construction Plan, approved by Israel’s Higher Planning Council, is seen as an “unacceptable and clear violation of international law.” This plan threatens to carve up Palestinian lands, effectively severing crucial territorial links that would doom prospects for a contiguous Palestinian state.

Voices from the Ground and the Corridors of Power

Tánaiste Simon Harris, Ireland’s deputy prime minister and a vocal advocate for stronger EU action, expressed a palpable sense of urgency and moral clarity ahead of an EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Copenhagen. Speaking on RTÉ’s News at One, Harris did not mince words, branding Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocidal activity.”

“I’ll be taking a very clear message on behalf of the people of Ireland to Copenhagen: ‘We want to see clear, concrete action against Israel,’” he said with a quiet but fierce resolve. His voice was laden with the sorrow of what he described as innocents—children suffering starvation to the point where “they can’t even cry any longer.”

“Words of condemnation are not enough. We cannot ignore a genocide,” Harris urged, his tone a blend of anguish and determination. “The people of this country feel so strongly on this so I will work with the Swedes, with the Dutch, with everybody and anybody for standing up for our values. The world is looking at the European Union, and our credibility as a union, in many ways, is on the line.”

In this statement lies a poignant question for all of us: What does it mean for a global coalition of democracies to stand firm on human rights? Can political alliances withstand the strain of moral reckoning?

Humanitarian Crisis Beyond Numbers

Statistics paint a grim backdrop to this call for action. Gaza’s population of nearly 2.3 million people has endured years of blockade, intermittent wars, and crippling restrictions. According to the United Nations, more than 1.3 million Palestinians in Gaza face severe food insecurity, with many children suffering from malnutrition. Access to clean water, medical supplies, and adequate shelter is precarious at best.

In this reality, the July agreement between the EU and Israel to enhance humanitarian aid was a rare beacon of hope. Yet, Israel’s slow and inconsistent implementation has only exacerbated hardship. The Dutch and Swedish ministers’ frustration is palpable—they accuse Israel not only of breaking promises but also of enabling the very conditions that pitch Gaza into deeper despair.

The Larger Geopolitical Tapestry

This dramatic call for trade suspension is not isolated. It sits at a volatile intersection of ongoing conflicts, hopes for a two-state solution, and the legacy of decades of occupation. The European Union—with its 27 member states collectively hosting over 447 million people—represents a powerful voice in international diplomacy, yet it often wrestles with internal divisions on how to approach the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Sweden’s and the Netherlands’ bold move thus reflects broader frustrations with perceived EU inaction. Their letter requests that Kaja Kallas provide a written analysis of the EU’s alignment with the 2024 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on Israel’s occupation — a legal document deemed critical in framing the rights and wrongs under international law.

Moreover, the ministers advocate for targeted sanctions against Israeli ministers they accuse of fueling illegal settlement building and undermining peace prospects. They also stress the necessity to pressure Hamas—urging the group to disarm, release hostages, and relinquish its hold on Gaza, acknowledging the complexities and responsibilities on all sides.

Walking the Tightrope: Diplomacy Meets Morality

This unfolding narrative raises formidable questions. How should democratic nations balance strategic alliances with humanitarian imperatives? Can sanctions and trade freezes impact on-the-ground realities, or do they risk entrenching conflict further? For citizens of Europe and beyond, the call invites reflection: What is the role of global governance in protecting human dignity?

Walking the geopolitical tightrope demands courage as well as empathy. The people of Gaza, Bethlehem, Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Dublin are connected by this moment — a shared crossroads where history and conscience converge.

Looking Ahead: The European Union’s Moment of Truth

Tomorrow’s informal EU foreign ministers’ meeting in Copenhagen under Danish presidency will be closely watched. Will the EU respond with the kind of decisive action Sweden and the Netherlands urge, or will it default to cautious statements and incremental steps?

Simon Harris’s words linger in the air like a challenge not just to policy makers but to every citizen around the world: “Now is the time to say, ‘Are we going to be true to our values?’”

As you read this, ask yourself—what kind of world do you want to live in? One where power shields injustice? Or one where humanity, even in its most fragile enclaves, is fiercely protected? The stakes could not be clearer.

The Difficult Past of Irish Participation in Lebanon

By

hanad

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August 28, 2025

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The troubled history of Irish involvement in Lebanon — UNIFIL armoured vehicles on patrol in Lebanon - the mission was created in 1978

Lebanon and Ireland: A Legacy of Peacekeeping and Sacrifice

On a brisk spring morning in 1978, as conflict smoldered in the hills and valleys of Lebanon, a group of Irish peacekeepers stepped onto foreign soil with a fragile hope: to carry forward a mission of peace amid chaos. Decades later, the UN Security Council voted decisively to draw down the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) by 2027, marking the beginning of the end of an era. For Ireland, this is not just the closure of a chapter; it’s a story filled with courage, duty, tragedy, and enduring bonds that have spanned generations.

Roots of Ireland’s Commitment: The Dawn of a Peacekeeping Tradition

Ireland’s connection to Lebanon stretches back over 65 years. In 1958, a modest contingent of 50 Irish officers was dispatched as part of the United Nations Observer Group in Lebanon (UNOGIL), Ireland’s first foray into international peacekeeping. Amid tensions ignited by Lebanon’s internal conflicts and regional rivalries, these observers monitored the Armistice Demarcation Line between Lebanon and Israel—an early testament to Ireland’s enduring commitment to global peace efforts.

Back then, with modest resources and a clear but limited mandate, Irish soldiers patrolled volatile terrain, embodying a spirit that would come to define the nation’s approach to peacekeeping: low profile, measured, but unwavering.

The Bloodied Birth of UNIFIL

The year 1978 was a turning point. After a devastating Palestinian attack on northern Israel resulted in 30 civilian casualties, Israel launched a swift and decisive invasion into southern Lebanon. The United Nations responded with monumental urgency: Security Council Resolutions 425 and 426 established UNIFIL on March 19, 1978, aiming to restore peace, confirm Israeli withdrawal, and support Lebanese sovereignty.

For Ireland, that translated into a significant military commitment—a full battalion of 650 soldiers deployed for a six-month shift. Often lightly armed infantry, Irish troops were thrust into one of the world’s most entangled and dangerous conflicts, tasked with monitoring a fractured border where allegiances shifted daily, and violence lurked just behind every ridge.

Between Crossfire and Community: Life as an Irish Peacekeeper

Imagine patrolling small mountainous villages like Tibnin, Bra’shit, and At-Tiri, where lush olive groves conceal battle scars and wary eyes watch from the hillsides. Irish peacekeepers found themselves walking a razor’s edge—a line between armed militias like Hezbollah and Amal, the Israel-backed South Lebanon Army (SLA), and Palestinian factions. Their mission was perilous. They were instruments of peace in a war zone, but also, at times, inadvertent pawns in a broader regional conflict.

“Our job was simple in theory, near impossible in practice,” retired Captain Emer O’Connell recounted in an interview. “You were trying to keep peace while being under fire from groups who didn’t want peace. You became part guardian, part medic, part neighbor.”

Indeed, beyond their military duties, the Irish soldiers became pillars of the local communities. They provided vital healthcare through makeshift clinics—dental care, emergency treatment, sometimes just a reassuring presence that transcended language and culture.

But the risks were brutal. Between 1978 and 2000, 47 Irish peacekeepers lost their lives in Lebanon—15 of them killed in hostile fire, others victims of tragic accidents that added a grim cadence to the mission’s toll. Their sacrifices whispered through the hills alongside the echoes of gunfire and mortar blasts.

A Tragic Breach Within

The mission was not without its darkest moments. In 1982, a horrific episode unfolded when Private Michael McAleavey, under opaque and tragic circumstances, fatally shot three fellow Irish soldiers at a checkpoint. This rare instance of internal violence shocked both Ireland and the international community, casting a somber shadow on an already fraught mission.

Despite such tragedies, the Irish resolve remained firm, underscored by the belief that despite the violence, their presence saved countless lives and deterred wider conflict.

Turning Points: Israeli Withdrawal and Mission Transitions

By 2000, two decades of protracted strife had taken a heavy toll. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak decided to pull Israel’s military forces back from southern Lebanon, effectively ending a 22-year occupation. This withdrawal prompted chaos: roughly 5,000 members of the SLA and their families fled to Israel, fearing reprisals from advancing Lebanese forces.

This seismic shift meant Irish peacekeepers were withdrawn too, with UNIFIL significantly downsized. Yet, Lebanon’s simmering instability pulled Ireland back into the fray in 2011 with a renewed, albeit leaner, contingent. Operated in partnership with Polish and other international forces, Irish troops now operate closer to the border than before, maintaining a vigilant peacekeeping presence amid a region that remains as complex as ever.

The Personal Cost Continues: Remembering Private Seán Rooney

The peacekeepers’ sacrifices are painfully tangible even in recent memory. In December 2022, Private Seán Rooney was killed when his armored vehicle was attacked near the village of Al-Aqbiya, close to the main highway into Beirut. A stark reminder that the fog of war still shrouds the region, Rooney’s death hit close to home in Ireland.

Mohammad Ayyad, convicted in absentia for the killing and sentenced to death in Lebanon, remains at large—a haunting symbol of the unfinished business that continues to stalk UNIFIL’s mission.

Reflecting on Legacy: What Does Peacekeeping Mean Today?

As the countdown to 2027 begins and UNIFIL prepares to withdraw, one must ponder what legacy peacekeeping leaves behind—not only in Lebanon but in the hearts of those who served and the communities they touched.

Where does peacekeeping fit in a world growing increasingly complex, where the lines between conflict and peace blur more than ever? Ireland’s journey—from tentative observer to frontline peacekeeper—offers a deeply human narrative of bravery amidst uncertainty, service amidst strife.

“It’s about more than just soldiers or strategies. It’s about human connection,” reflects Nora Hassan, a Lebanese schoolteacher from Tibnin. “Those men and women who came from so far away—we saw them not just as peacekeepers, but as friends. They carried the heavy weight of hope for a better future.”

In the sweeping tides of history that have marked Lebanon’s tortured landscape, the story of Irish peacekeepers is a poignant thread—woven with loss, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of peace.

What Will the Future Hold?

Will the withdrawal leave Lebanon more vulnerable to renewed conflict? Or can the seeds of stability planted over decades take root and flourish? For the global community, the answer may come in how we understand and support peacekeeping—not as a static mission, but a living promise to those caught in the crossfire.

As you read this, consider the countless unsung people who embody that promise, far from home, standing watch while history unfolds around them.

What does peace mean to you?

Madaxweyne Xasan oo Wasiirka Arrimaha Dibadda Jabuuti kula kulmay magaalada Muqdisho

By

aden

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August 28, 2025

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Aug 28 (Jowhar)-Madaxweynaha Jamhuuriyadda Federaalka Soomaaliya Mudane Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud ayaa maanta Madaxtooyada ku qaabilay Wasiirka Arrimaha Dibadda dalka aan walaalaha nahay ee Jabuuti Mudane Cabdulqaadir Xuseen Cumar oo booqashadiisii ugu horreysay ku yimid dalka.

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Israeli military kills 16 amid ongoing attacks in Gaza City

By

hanad

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August 28, 2025

0

Israeli forces kill 16 as Gaza City attacks continue — Israeli strikes targeted the Zeitoun neighbourhood of Gaza City

The Siege Tightens: Gaza’s Heartbeat Amidst Rising Devastation

It’s dawn in Gaza City, but the light struggles to break through the haze of smoke and uncertainty. In neighborhoods like Shejaia, Zeitoun, and Sabra, the distant rumble of bombardment is no longer distant—it is relentless, closing in. The suburb streets that once echoed with children’s laughter now ripple with fear, footsteps pounding against the cracked pavement as families clutch their few belongings and flee towards the coast. What remains is a fragile city gripped by a mounting crisis, a humanitarian nightmare unfolding in real time.

“We hear the shells falling nearer,” says Layla, a 32-year-old mother of three huddled in a makeshift shelter near Gaza’s beach. “Every night, my children wake, scared, asking if this is where they will die. I have no answers—only prayers.”

Her fears are echoed in grim statistics: in just the last 24 hours, at least 71 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza, with 16 dead in the south alone, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The wounded—dozens more—spill into overcrowded hospitals like the Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah, where medics work under impossible circumstances.

The Military Advance and the Growing Humanitarian Crisis

Behind these statistics are stories of human resilience and tragedy underscored by a worsening military campaign. Israeli forces, having reiterated their intention to seize Gaza City—Palestine’s largest urban center—press ahead with a ground offensive that many fear will unleash untold casualties and displacements.

“The city is a labyrinth of communities, each with families, markets, mosques—and now, a battlefield,” explains Tariq al-Sheikh, a local journalist who has chronicled the conflict for years. “International voices ask for restraint, but the bombardment intensifies, and whole neighborhoods become ghost towns overnight.”

This strategy has stirred global concern. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently voiced deep alarm: the expanded assault would have “devastating consequences” not only for Gaza’s immediate survival but for the prospects of peace. His impassioned plea underscored a critical truth: humanitarian access must be unimpeded.

“No more excuses. No more obstacles. No more lies,” Guterres declared. His words hang heavy, spotlighting an often unseen war within the war—the blockade on aid, which blocks food, fuel, and medicine from reaching a population teetering on the brink of famine.

Starvation as a Weapon of War?

In Gaza’s hospitals, this blockade is more than a line in a statement—it is a silent killer. The Gaza health ministry reported four more deaths caused by malnutrition in recent days, including two children. Since October, as the conflict escalated, at least 317 Palestinians have died from starvation and malnutrition, with nearly 40% being children.

“It’s not just the bombs,” says Dr. Lina Mujahid, a pediatrician at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. “Every day, I see children whose bodies are as fragile as paper—victims not of violence alone, but of hunger and neglect.”

International organizations echo this humanitarian catastrophe. The Global Hunger Monitor’s latest report paints a bleak picture of Gaza as a man-made famine zone—a chilling label reflecting the scale and severity of the crisis. The UN’s human rights chief Volker Turk hands responsibility squarely to Israeli policies, calling the famine a direct consequence of enforced restrictions and blockades.

The Fractured Voices of a War-Torn Land

The narratives weaving through Gaza’s smoldering streets are complex—and contentious.

Israel’s Position: Officials deny accusations of deliberately starving the population, accusing Hamas of misappropriating aid shipments and blaming international actors for failures in distribution.
Hamas and Palestinian View: They highlight Israeli restrictions as the root cause of the humanitarian breakdown, pointing to rising starvation and a collapsing infrastructure.

Official denunciations fail to ease the human suffering. Doctors at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis recount the chilling moments when soldiers allegedly fired upon Palestinians queuing for aid distribution centers, leaving many wounded and critical.

Mohammad Saqer, the head of nursing, recounts, “They came to us with gunshot wounds to their upper bodies. They told us they were shot while simply trying to get food for their families. How have we come to this?”

Lives Torn Apart and Hostages Held

The ongoing war’s tally is staggering. Since October 7, 2023—when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack into Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages—the death toll on the Palestinian side has crossed 62,000.

Among the chaos, glimmers of negotiation flicker uncertainly. Several hostages have been released through diplomatic channels, but around 50 remain captive, with 20 reportedly still alive. While Hamas recently accepted a ceasefire proposal to facilitate hostage returns, Israel remains steadfast in its demand: the full release of hostages and Hamas’s unconditional surrender, a stance that leaves diplomacy precarious at best.

Understanding the Broader Context – Why This Matters to the World

Pause for a moment. Let that number—62,000 deaths—sink in. Behind every statistic is a life, a child lost, a family shattered, a neighborhood erased. What does this mean for global peace? How do we reconcile the cyclical nature of violence sustained by politics, history, and entrenched grievances?

This is not merely a conflict confined to geography; it is a mirror reflecting the urgent requirement for international accountability, humanitarian law, and the protection of civilians in war.

Moreover, the blockade and siege signal a broader pattern visible in conflicts worldwide—where starvation and restricted aid access are weaponized to break communities. It poses searing questions:

Can the world tolerate famine as a tactic?
What do we owe to civilians caught in the crossfire?
And crucially, how do humanitarian principles regain ground amidst political hardening?

As Gaza’s coastline stretches along the Mediterranean, many look to the sea for escape, hope, and survival. Yet, for many trapped in the enclave, the horizon is dark—obscured by violence, fear, and the looming specter of starvation.

Echoes of Hope: Education and the Future of Gaza’s Youth

Amid the headlines, stories of resilience emerge. Recently, 52 Gazans were selected to study at universities in Ireland, an island continent away but a beacon of opportunity. Education becomes a lifeline—a bridge to futures beyond siege and conflict. This movement of young minds seeking knowledge casts a poignant light on what is truly at stake: the right to life, to growth, to dreams free from the shadow of war.

As we watch, report, and reflect, we must ask ourselves: How will future generations in Gaza, and around the world, remember this time? As a moment of desolation, or a call for change?

Final Thoughts

The war in Gaza is more than news; it is a complex human drama filled with anguish, courage, and a desperate plea for compassion. As the siege tightens, and more families are uprooted, the question remains—how do we, as a global community, respond when humanity itself is under fire?

Like Layla and countless others, the residents of Gaza watch the skies with bated breath. They do not ask for much: safety, dignity, and the chance to rebuild. Their plight invites us all to listen carefully—not just to words or reports, but to the beating, fragile heart of a city on the edge.

Will the world rise to that challenge? Or will the silence between the shells be the story we leave behind?

Mareykanka oo beeniyay inuu wado qorshe lagu aqoonsanayo Somaliland

By

aden

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August 28, 2025

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Aug 28 (Jowhar)-Mareykanka ayaa beeniyay inuu wadahadalo kula jiro Somaliland, si loo lgu aqoonsado dal ahaan.

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UN operation in Lebanon set to conclude in 2027

By

hanad

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August 28, 2025

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UN mission in Lebanon on course to end in 2027 — Ireland's participation in UNIFIL dates back to 1978

As the Sun Sets on a Half-Century Legacy: UN Peacekeepers Prepare to Exit Lebanon by 2027

Nearly five decades have passed since Irish peacekeepers first stepped onto the rugged soil of southern Lebanon, a region long fraught with tension, volatility, and the fragile promise of peace. Now, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), the emblem of this delicate stability, is charting a course for its gradual departure—planned to conclude within the next four years. For many around the world who have followed this story, it is the closing chapter of a mission that has seen immense courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to peacekeeping in one of the most challenging regions on Earth.

This week, a draft resolution, primarily brokered by France and set before the UN Security Council in New York, proposes extending UNIFIL’s mandate through 2026. It then calls for a deliberate and carefully managed drawdown throughout 2027. This approach marks a decisive shift from the more abrupt withdrawal previously sought by the United States and Israel—a move that could have had destabilizing reverberations across the region.

Peacekeeping at a Crossroads: The Stakes Behind the Resolution

For Ireland, UNIFIL has been more than just a distant UN mission; it has been a deeply ingrained part of the nation’s identity on the international stage. Since 1978, Irish soldiers have been a constant presence in southern Lebanon, often facing harsh conditions and grave risks. As Tánaiste Simon Harris poignantly reflected, “We have a very, very long and proud association with UNIFIL… today I want to pay tribute to the thousands upon thousands of Irish men and women who have served with absolute distinction, particularly the 47 who gave their lives in the cause of peace.”

Mr. Harris’s voice carries a particular weight this week. Only months ago, the prospect of an immediate cessation of the mission loomed large—a cliff edge that threatened to destabilize geopolitical balance in a region already tension-wracked. “An abrupt end would have been wholly irresponsible,” Harris warned, underscoring the caution with which the Irish government has approached the complex negotiations that have unfurled behind the scenes.

Indeed, the Irish diplomats—along with French, Austrian, Polish, and EU counterparts—have invested weeks of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, engaging with US officials, Lebanese authorities, and UN representatives to chart a path that respects both operational security and local governance ambitions.

The Challenge of Stability in Southern Lebanon

To understand the gravity of the withdrawal, one must peer into the volatile mosaic of southern Lebanon. UNIFIL’s presence has been a buffer, monitoring ceasefires and acting as a stabilizing force amid the persistent shadow of Hezbollah, Israeli military posturing, and fragile Lebanese state authority.

Since the right-wing government of Benjamin Netanyahu came to power in Israel in late 2022, there’s been mounting pressure to push UN forces out—criticism that peaked when Israeli Cabinet Minister Eli Cohen branded UNIFIL “a useless force” that had failed to curb Hezbollah’s entrenchment.

But the reality on the ground is far more complex. Hezbollah remains a powerful militia with deep social roots in Lebanon, intertwined with Iran’s regional influence. Lebanon’s government is now working on a sensitive proposal to coax these armed groups into disarmament through incentives rather than force. Simultaneously, Israel is poised to reduce its military footprint in southern Lebanon contingent on these disarmament steps.

A Fragile Peace, A Complex Dance

It is a precarious balance. The US envisions economic packages from Gulf allies, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, to offset the socioeconomic fallout for Hezbollah’s fighters if they disarm—a bold experiment in conflict resolution that transcends military might and delves into diplomacy and economic realities.

“This isn’t just about troop numbers,” explains Dr. Layla Haddad, a Middle East analyst based in Beirut. “It’s about whether a government can extend its authority, whether militias can lay down arms voluntarily, and whether international actors can hold their nerve in an unpredictable environment.”

The Irish Peacekeepers: Guardians of Hope in a Troubled Land

For the more than 300 Irish personnel currently stationed at Camp Shamrock in southern Lebanon, their mission stands as a testament to enduring commitment. Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe recently spoke about bolstering support in this final phase and looking ahead to new opportunities for Ireland’s defense forces in other UN peacekeeping roles.

“We must support our troops up to 2026 and then explore future engagements,” Donohoe said during a visit to Limerick. “The Defence Forces have a proud, professional tradition in peacekeeping. They have navigated some of the most complex and risky environments globally.”

His words remind us of the human element behind the uniforms. Irish soldiers often share stories of laughter amid adversity, friendships forged across cultures, and a steadfast resilience born of a mission larger than themselves.

A veteran soldier, speaking anonymously from Camp Shamrock, offered this reflection: “We didn’t come here for glory. We came to make sure kids could play safely, families could tend their homes without fear. It’s hard work. But it’s work that matters.”

What Comes Next? A Moment to Reflect—and to Act

As the Security Council convenes and votes, the decision resonates far beyond diplomatic halls. It poses profound questions about the future of peacekeeping and international responsibility. Can regional governments assume full security control after decades of international oversight? What sacrifices will that transition demand? And what will happen to the locals who live under the perpetual threat of geopolitical strife?

History teaches us that peacekeeping missions do not function in a vacuum. They are not just about manning checkpoints or patrolling borders; they symbolize hope, international solidarity, and the persistent human yearning for stability in an unstable world.

Readers might pause to consider: what responsibility do we bear, as global citizens, to support peace—not just through boots on the ground, but through diplomatic vigilance, humanitarian aid, and sustained attention? How might today’s withdrawal shape tomorrow’s conflicts—or peace?

Final Thoughts: Closing One Chapter, Opening Another

As the sun sets on UNIFIL’s historic mission, we honor the tireless efforts of those who have served: soldiers, diplomats, and local civilians alike. Their stories, many of them untold, are woven into the tapestry of Lebanon’s modern history.

This transition affords an opportunity—a chance to rethink how the world approaches peacekeeping, sovereignty, and conflict resolution in a changing geopolitical landscape. Ireland’s continued commitment to serve on peace missions globally ensures that this legacy is not just an ending, but the start of new chapters in international cooperation.

In a world frequently defined by division, the story of UNIFIL stands as a testament to patience, persistence, and hope. The question remains: as UN peacekeepers prepare to pack their bags for the last time in 2027, how will the international community ensure that the fragile peace they have guarded does not unravel? And what lessons can we glean from their journey to inform peace efforts elsewhere—perhaps closer to home than we realize?

Shir ku saabsan hannaanka Maaliyadda Cimilada Qaranka oo lagu soo gabagabeeyay Muqdisho

By

aden

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August 28, 2025

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Aug 28 (Jowhar)-Kulan Aqoon-isweydaarsiga Qaranka oo ku saabsan Tijaabada Maaliyadda Cimilada Soomaaliya iyo Hawlgelinta Sanduuqa Qaranka ee Cimilada (NCF) ayaa lagu soo gebagebeeyay Muqdisho.

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