The European Council has appointed Rear Admiral Valentino Rinaldi as the new EU Operation Commander for the European Union military operation in the Mediterranean, known as EUNAVFOR MED IRINI. He will officially take command from Rear Admiral Stefano Turchetto on 19 July.
Rear Admiral Rinaldi brings a wealth of experience from his extensive service in the Italian Navy, where he has commanded various units within the Italian fleet. Recently, he served as Force Commander of “Operazione Mare Sicuro” and led the Amphibious Task Force during the 2022 NATO Response Force and the “Cold Response-22” exercise.
Notably, Rear Admiral Rinaldi was the Force Commander of Operation IRINI from 1 April to 30 September 2023, demonstrating his deep familiarity with the mission’s objectives and challenges.
EUNAVFOR MED IRINI was launched on 31 March 2020, following the Berlin Conference on Libya in January 2020. This mission represents a tangible EU commitment to support the return to peace and stability in Libya. The current mandate for Operation IRINI extends until 31 March 2025.
The core task of Operation IRINI is to enforce the UN arms embargo on Libya by utilizing aerial, satellite, and maritime resources. The mission conducts inspections of vessels on the high seas off the Libyan coast that are suspected of carrying arms or related materials in violation of the UN embargo, as mandated by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2292 (2016) and subsequent resolutions.
In addition to its primary focus, Operation IRINI also monitors and gathers information on illicit exports of petroleum, crude oil, and refined petroleum products from Libya. Furthermore, the mission contributes to disrupting human smuggling and trafficking networks by patrolling and collecting vital information.
This decision was adopted by the Political and Security Committee, reflecting a strategic move to strengthen the mission’s leadership and effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate.
“The appointment of Rear Admiral Valentino Rinaldi marks a significant step forward for Operation IRINI. His extensive experience and previous leadership within the mission ensure a seamless transition and continued success in our objectives,” said EU Council spokesperson.
Rear Admiral Rinaldi expressed his readiness for the role, stating, “I am honored to take on this responsibility and build upon the solid foundation laid by Rear Admiral Turchetto. Our mission is crucial for the stability of the region, and I am committed to ensuring its success.”
Editor: Gabriel Ani
