The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has ceased military operations near to a base manned by Irish peacekeepers, Minister for Defence Micheál Martin said on Tuesday evening.
In a post on X, Mr Martin said he had been informed by the Irish Defence Forces chief of staff and the UN that IDF activity around Post 6-52 has ended.
“Welcome news. I pay tribute to our personnel who continue to serve with distinction in the interests of peace.”
Taoiseach Simon Harris also welcomed the news saying the safety of the soldiers was paramount.
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“When I spoke to [UN] secretary general [António] Guterres he was completely at one with me on the urgency of the situation,” Mr Harris said.
“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, the Defence Forces confirmed UN reports that there are no IDF personnel or vehicles in the vicinity of their personnel.
“Defence Forces personnel deployed in Lebanon are currently maintaining a robust operational presence,” it 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.”
On Tuesday, the Israeli military said it had sent a fourth combat division into the south of Lebanon, meaning it now has more than 20,000 troops in the country.
In response to media questions on Tuesday, Mr Guterres confirmed Israeli tanks “and other armed elements” around the 6-52 position had left.
Last weekend, President Michael D Higgins said it was “outrageous” that the Israel Defense Forces had “threatened this peacekeeping force”.
His comments drew criticism from Israel. Its embassy in Dublin said the safety of peacekeeping forces was of “immense importance” to Israel.
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