09/02/2026 (Agence Europe) – Operation EUNAVFOR MED Irini, one of the aims of which is to ensure compliance with the arms embargo in Libya, involved checks on 21,836 ships between its launch in March 2020 and 1 February 2026. Between 1 January and 1 February this year alone, more than 300 vessels were inspected. Since March 2020, 783 ships have been visited with the consent of their captains, 33 suspect ships have been inspected and boarded, and three have been hijacked. EUNAVFOR MED Irini also investigated 2,480 suspicious flights. 101 recommendations to inspect suspect ships in EU ports were made to the relevant law enforcement authorities, of which 76 were implemented. Irini has also provided 84 special reports to the UN Panel of Experts on Libya. 24 Member States are taking part in the operation. (CG)