04/06/2021 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 3 June, the United Nations Security Council unanimously renewed for one year the authorisation of inspections at sea and port diversions by Operation EUNAVFORMed Irini of vessels suspected of violating the arms embargo in Libya, (see EUROPE 12680/14). Since its launch on 31 March 2020, Irini has investigated 3,344 vessels, conducted 133 friendly approaches and carried out 14 boardings/inspections on suspect vessels. In 37 cases, friendly approaches were refused and in six cases, the operation was unable to board and inspect the suspect vessels due to flag state denial. Irini also recommended 26 inspections of suspicious vessels in EU Member States’ ports. It also monitored 468 suspicious flights, 25 airports (and airstrips) and 16 ports (and oil terminals). (CG)