Irish peacekeepers ‘safe’ amid escalating violence in Lebanon

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

All Irish peacekeepers in Lebanon are “safe”, the Tánaiste has said, following an escalation in violence in the region.

It comes after Israel struck Lebanon in retaliation for rockets targeting Israel, in the heaviest exchange of fire since the ceasefire with the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

Earlier, rockets were fired from Lebanon into Israel in an attack for which Hezbollah has denied responsibility.

Simon Harris, the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, called for restraint on “all sides”.

In a statement, Mr Harris said: “Deeply concerned about the latest escalation in violence and tensions between Israel and Lebanon.

“I can confirm that Irish peacekeepers at Unifil are safe.

“I am grateful to them for all they do as peacekeepers.

“It is absolutely vital now that all sides show restraint.”