Irish diplomats have expressed growing frustration over the lack of progress by the Lebanese government in locating Mohammad Ayyad, the gunman convicted in absentia for the killing of Irish peacekeeper Private Seán Rooney. Officials now believe the chances of bringing him to justice are increasingly slim.
Diplomatic sources say they are “absolutely convinced” that Ayyad has fled Lebanon and is currently hiding in Iran, a country known to finance Hezbollah. They believe he left south Lebanon long ago, despite originally living in the region.
Ayyad was arrested months after the December 14, 2022, attack on a UN convoy in which Private Rooney, from Dundalk, Co. Louth, was fatally shot and three other Irish peacekeepers were injured. Although initially held in custody, he was released over a year ago on purported medical grounds. He subsequently failed to appear for his trial on July 28, during which the Lebanese Military Tribunal sentenced him to death in absentia.
Lebanese officials have since admitted to Irish diplomats that they do not know his whereabouts—an admission that has deeply angered Rooney’s family.
One senior diplomat stated:
“The Lebanese say they don’t know where this criminal is and are doing their best to find him. They’ve conducted searches with no success. This man has vanished like a ghost, and all indications suggest he fled to Iran, where he will never be extradited.”
“It is extremely frustrating. We are doing everything we can for Seán Rooney and his heartbroken family.
We do not seek his execution, but we expect a life sentence for what he has done.”
Lebanon has not carried out an execution in more than 20 years, and death sentences are typically commuted to life imprisonment.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Dundalk Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú, Minister for Justice Simon Harris reiterated Ireland’s stance:
“The Government remains determined that all facts and circumstances surrounding the incident be fully established and that those responsible are brought to justice.
My officials and I have consistently raised this issue with the Lebanese authorities and will continue to do so.”
Outrage Over Lenient Sentences for Other Defendants
Private Rooney was travelling in a UN convoy through the village of Al-Aqbiya in south Lebanon en route to Beirut Airport when gunmen opened fire. The Irish Government expressed anger that several other defendants involved in the attack received what they described as “extremely lenient” sentences:
- One received three months’ imprisonment,
- Another one month,
- A third was acquitted,
- And a fourth was fined approximately €1,800.
Following pressure from Dublin, the Lebanese authorities have lodged appeals against these sentences, although no hearing date has been scheduled.
The families of Private Rooney, as well as injured peacekeepers Private Shane Kearney, Corporal Joshua Phelan, and Private Nathan Byrne, have also condemned the verdicts.
Calls for Stronger Diplomatic Pressure
Deputy Ó Murchú, who has been supporting Private Rooney’s family in their pursuit of justice, called on the Irish Government to intensify diplomatic efforts:
“The pressure must remain on the Lebanese authorities. Sean Rooney’s killer must be found and jailed. He cannot be allowed to get away with murder.”
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