Further Bundeswehr participation in the EU mission EUNAVFOR MED IRINI in the Mediterranean

The Bundestag has approved the continuation of the participation of armed German forces in the EU-led operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI in the Mediterranean for another year. The current mandate expires in November 2025 and was last extended by roll-call vote in January 2025. The aim of the operation continues to be to enforce the United Nations arms embargo against Libya and to prevent people smuggling and illegal oil exports. In addition, the Bundeswehr will take on tasks such as maritime surveillance and reconnaissance with up to 300 soldiers. There was a recommendation for a resolution from the Foreign Affairs Committee regarding the Federal Government's application, which was voted on by name and in which the acceptance of the application was recommended. The Budget Committee also published a report on the compatibility of the application with the federal budget situation. The recommendation for a resolution and thus also the application were approved with 313 yes votes to 182 no votes and 69 abstentions. Except for nine MPs, the entire ALLIANCE 90/THE GREENS faction as well as the SPD MPs Jan Dieren and Ruppert Stüwe abstained.