The European Union’s Naval Force in the Mediterranean, which is known as Operation IRINI (EUNAVFOR MED IRINI), announced on Saturday the change of its command.
Italian Rear Admiral Valentino Rinaldi took over tactical command of the European Naval Force operating in the Central Mediterranean, from Greek Rear Admiral Stylianos A. Dimopoulos.
The change of command ceremony took place today on board the Greek frigate HS LIMNOS in Taranto naval base, according to the European mission.
“The ceremony was chaired by the Commander of the Operation, Rear Admiral Stefano Turchetto, who thanked Rear Admiral Dimopoulos for his commitment and dedication,” the naval mission said.
“The Force Commanders, with their respective staffs, are assigned on a six-month rotation from Italy and Greece. The same nations are also providing the Flagship, where the Force Headquarters are based,” it added.
Launched in 31 March 2020, Operation IRINI is tasked with enforcing the United Nations arms embargo to Libya. Since its launch, Operation IRINI has carried out checks and queries on almost 9,000 merchant vessels, inspected 25 suspect vessels at sea and, on three occasions, seized their cargoes for violating the UN embargo. On the whole, IRINI units found and seized around 150 armoured vehicles or modified for military use.
The Council of the European Union recently extended the mandate of Operation IRINI by two years.
Change of Command of the Force Commander Operation #EunavforMed #IRINI 🇪🇺
Italian Rear Admiral Valentino Rinaldi takes over from the Hellenic Rear Admiral Stylianos A. Dimopoulos. Chairing the ceremony OPCDR Stefano Turchetto. More on https://t.co/LPXZMBkZ7a📷#IRINI4PEACE pic.twitter.com/fTSYuTryF3
— Operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI (@EUNAVFOR_MED) April 1, 2023