The Israeli Defence Force has left its positions beside Irish peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has said:
Mr Guterres said that he spoke with Taoiseach Simon Harris about the situation yesterday, and afterwards took a number of “démarches with different entities” over the matter.
In a statement on X, Tánaiste Micheál Martin said that he had been informed by the Defence Forces Chief of Staff that the IDF left their position around Irish peacekeepers based at Post 652.
“Welcome news. I pay tribute to our personnel who continue to serve with distinction in the interests of peace,” Mr Martin said.
The IDF has since expanded its invasion of Lebanon, with attacks now being launched in the southwest of the country.
Taoiseach Simon Harris said that the news of the IDF leaving their position next to Irish peacekeepers was “extremely welcome”.
“The safety of our soldiers is paramount and when I spoke to Secretary General Guterres last night he was completely at one with me on the urgency of the situation,” Mr Harris said, while thanking Mr Guterres for his efforts.
“It is important to note that our troops are highly trained and professional and they continue to do their jobs. The situation in Southern Lebanon remains tense and dangerous and we will continue to review and monitor it very closely.”
In a statement issued this evening, the defence forces confirmed there are no “IDF personnel or vehicles observed in the vicinity” of the Irish base.
“Defence Forces personnel deployed in Lebanon are currently maintaining a robust operational presence,” a spokesperson said.
“They are well equipped with sufficient provisions to ensure long term sustainability during their mission. This includes adequate supplies of food and water, which are essential to meet the operational needs of the troops throughout their deployment.
“Troops in Irish posts are being sustained by three meals of a combination of fresh and frozen food and pre-prepared convenience meals from rations packs. A bulk delivery of locally purchased food was received by troops in UNP 2-45 today. Troops in UNP 6-52 remain well stocked with fresh food and have yet to open their ration pack stores.
“The Irish Defence Forces personnel remain committed to their mission, closely monitoring the situation while ensuring their safety and effectiveness in operations. The strategic landscape is evolving, and the Defence Forces are prepared to adapt to these changes as necessary. The Irish Defence Forces continue to perform their duties with professionalism and courage, serving as vital components in factually reporting the live situation.”
