We can confirm that all Irish personnel are well and accounted for.
This assurance follows recent reports of military activity in the region, specifically concerning incidents involving Israeli forces targeting UNIFIL positions. Despite these developments, our troops have not been directly affected by incoming fire, and all necessary force protection measures are being diligently observed to ensure their safety.
Defence Forces personnel are resolute in their commitment to peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon. Our troops serve as crucial observers and facilitators of humanitarian aid, contributing significantly to international efforts aimed at restoring peace and security. The ongoing cooperation with UNIFIL highlights the importance of maintaining a presence in this volatile region, especially as hostilities continue between Israel and Hezbollah.
Official UNIFIL Update 11 Oct 2024
This morning, UNIFIL’s Naqoura headquarters was affected by explosions for the second time in the last 48 hours. Two peacekeepers were injured after two explosions occurred close to an observation tower. One injured peacekeeper was taken to a hospital in Tyre, while the second is being treated in Naqoura.
Today, several T-walls at our UN position 1-31, near the Blue Line in Labbouneh, fell when an IDF caterpillar hit the perimeter and IDF tanks moved in the proximity of the UN position. Our peacekeepers remained at the location, and a UNIFIL Quick Reaction Force was dispatched to assist and reinforce the position.
These incidents put again UN peacekeepers, who are serving in south Lebanon at the request of the Security Council under resolution 1701 (2006), at very serious risks.
This is a serious development, and UNFIL reiterates that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be guaranteed and that the inviolability of UN premises must be respected at all times. Any deliberate attack on peacekeepers is a grave violation of international humanitarian law and Security Council resolution 1701 (2006).
