Behind the Bastards It Could Happen Here Weekly 162
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Dec 28, 2024 Kevin MacDonald, a former senior officer in the Irish Defence Forces with extensive experience in peacekeeping, shares gripping insights from his time in Lebanon. He discusses the challenges and complexities faced by UN peacekeepers and the critical role of unarmed observers in fostering peace. MacDonald also reflects on the ongoing territorial negotiations in the region and the deeply emotional experiences during military operations. His narrative captures the interplay of cultural understanding and military strategy in a conflict-ridden landscape, highlighting both personal and historical contexts.
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MacDonald's UNIFIL Service
- Kevin MacDonald served in Lebanon with UNIFIL, experiencing both enlisted and officer roles.
- He was there in 1984, 1993, and 2006, witnessing conflict and cultural exchange.
UNIFIL's International Composition
- Irish soldiers in UNIFIL interact with other international militaries.
- This includes countries like Fiji, Finland, France, Ghana, Netherlands, Norway, and Senegal.
UNIFIL's Neutrality
- UNIFIL faces accusations of allying with Hezbollah or spying for the IDF.
- These conflicting accusations suggest UNIFIL is likely neutral.
