Ireland’s Secret Offer to Meet Iranian President Over Brian Keenan Hostage Crisis
Ireland once had a unique opportunity to meet the Iranian president in secret to help secure the release of Brian Keenan, a Belfast man held hostage in Lebanon for four years. This confidential offer came from the Iranian ambassador to Ireland, Bahram Ghassemi, during a meeting with Minister of State Seán Calleary in March 1990. Here’s the story, simplified and expanded for better understanding.
Brian Keenan’s Abduction: A Four-Year Nightmare
Brian Keenan, a Belfast-born English lecturer at the American University in Beirut, was kidnapped on April 11, 1986, by Islamic Jihad.
- Who Were His Captors?
The group, Shi’ite Muslims with strong ties to Iran, held him hostage during Lebanon’s brutal civil war. - Not the Only Hostage:
Other notable hostages included British journalist John McCarthy, cleric Terry Waite, and pilot Jackie Mann, all of whom endured similar conditions. - Keenan’s Irish Identity:
Although born into a Protestant family in Belfast, Keenan carried an Irish passport and identified as Irish. This played a crucial role in the Irish government’s negotiation efforts.
Ireland’s Role in Negotiations
Ireland took the lead in securing Keenan’s release, emphasizing his Irish citizenship to distance him from British hostages.
- Key Negotiations:
Ireland’s ambassador, Antóin Mac Unfraidh, highlighted Keenan’s nationality to influential Shi’ite cleric Sheikh Fadlallah in May 1990. - The cleric suggested the Irish engage Iran, as they might have influence over the captors.
- Mac Unfraidh reminded the cleric of Ireland’s peaceful and neutral stance to gain favor.
Iran’s Secret Offer to Aid Keenan’s Release
During a key meeting in Government Buildings, Iranian ambassador Bahram Ghassemi unveiled a possible path to freedom for Brian Keenan, who was held captive in Lebanon for four years. This proposal was seen as a significant opportunity in the ongoing Brian Keenan hostage release efforts.
Iran’s Role in the Crisis
Ghassemi clarified that Iran did not have direct contact with the Shi’ite Muslim captors but stressed that Iranian authorities were actively working behind the scenes to secure Keenan’s release. This acknowledgment hinted at Iran’s potential influence over the situation despite their indirect involvement.
The Secret Proposal
To expedite Keenan’s freedom, Ghassemi proposed a confidential meeting between Seán Calleary and Iranian President Rafsanjani. The ambassador emphasized the secrecy of this plan, even requesting that note-takers stop recording during the discussion.
- Highlighting Diplomacy: Calleary seized this moment to remind Ghassemi of the potential goodwill Iran could gain by aiding in the release. Improving relations with the European Community (now the EU), where tensions were high, was positioned as a clear benefit for Iran.
- Strategic Timing: This offer came during Ireland’s presidency of the European Community, amplifying its significance in the broader geopolitical context.
By offering this behind-the-scenes assistance, Iran positioned itself as a potential key player in one of the most pressing Brian Keenan hostage release efforts of the time.
Challenges in International Relations
At the time, Ireland held the presidency of the European Community, adding complexity to the situation.
- Tensions With Iran:
Relations were strained due to the 1989 fatwa against author Salman Rushdie and an EU travel ban on Iranian officials. - Leveraging Diplomacy:
The Irish government used this opportunity to emphasize goodwill and build better relations between Iran and the EU.
Brian Keenan’s Freedom: A Triumph for Diplomacy
On August 24, 1990, Keenan was finally released after four harrowing years.
- Irish Government’s Response:
The government expressed joy and thanked Iran for its efforts. A statement noted, “The Irish government would like to express their deep appreciation to the government of Iran for the efforts they have made to secure his release.” - Impact on Relations:
Keenan’s release marked a step toward improving relations between Iran and the European Community.
Key Takeaways From Keenan’s Ordeal
- Diplomacy’s Role in Crisis Resolution:
Ireland’s neutral and peaceful stance helped navigate a complex international hostage situation. - The Importance of Identity:
Highlighting Keenan’s Irish citizenship set him apart and bolstered Ireland’s negotiating power. - Cooperation Across Borders:
The collaboration between Ireland, Iran, and influential clerics showcased the global effort needed to resolve such crises.
