German Defense Minister Decides to Extend Bundeswehr Mission in the Mediterranean
On January 30, 2025, German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht announced the extension of the Bundeswehr’s anti-smuggling operation in the Mediterranean Sea until the end of November 2025. The decision comes as part of an ongoing effort to combat illegal arms and drug trafficking in the region.
The Bundeswehr has been part of Operation Irini, an EU-led mission aimed at enforcing the UN Security Council arms embargo on Libya, since 2020. The German contingent consists of a frigate, a maritime patrol aircraft, and up to 200 personnel.
According to Lambrecht, the Bundeswehr has made significant contributions to the success of Operation Irini. She highlighted the seizure of illegal weapons and the detention of suspected smugglers as evidence of the mission’s effectiveness.
Lambrecht’s decision to extend the Bundeswehr’s involvement in the Mediterranean has been met with mixed reactions. Some critics argue that the mission has been ineffective in curbing arms smuggling to Libya, while others express concerns about the potential for increased tensions with neighboring countries.
However, Lambrecht defended her decision, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of instability in Libya and the wider Sahel region. She also stressed that the Bundeswehr would continue to operate within the framework of international law and in close cooperation with partner nations.
The extension of the Bundeswehr’s deployment in the Mediterranean is part of a broader commitment by the German government to combat illegal activities that threaten regional and international security. The mission is expected to continue playing a key role in supporting peace and stability in the Mediterranean region.
Additional Information:
- The UN Security Council Arms Embargo on Libya was imposed in 2011 to prevent the flow of weapons into the country and support efforts to end the civil war.
- Operation Irini was launched in 2020 to enforce the arms embargo and prevent the illicit export of oil from Libya.
- The Bundeswehr has been participating in Operation Irini since March 2020, with a focus on monitoring and intercepting vessels suspected of arms trafficking.
- The German contingent of Operation Irini has also provided training and support to the Libyan Coast Guard and other regional partners.
Bundeswehreinsätze im Mittelmeer bis Ende November verlängert
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