The Irish Defence Forces have personnel serving with UNIFIL in Lebanon, UNDOF in Syria and UNSTO in Lebanon, Syria and Israel. Please see below for mission specific information.
13 Oct 23 1750hrs
UNIFIL
In the last 48 Hrs there have been sporadic exchanges of fires across the Blue Line between Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and Non-State Actors (NSA) in South Lebanon. The intensity of fires has decreased from its height on the 06 and 07 OCT 23.
On several occasions since commencement of hostilities UNIFIL, and specifically IRISHPOLBATT have been subject to GROUNDHOG (taking shelter in protected positions). The Irish troops of the 122nd Infantry Battalion in UNIFIL went into GROUNDHOG today at ~1430hrs (GMT) and continue to monitor the situation from protected positions. All Irish soldiers are accounted for and are safe. Once safe to do so they will continue to conduct planned framework operations. There are 342 Defence Forces personnel serving with UNIFIL.
UNDOF
The Irish troops of the 68th Infantry Group maintain a high degree of vigilance and continue to monitor the situation. All non-essential activities are suspended. They continue to conduct framework operations congruent with mandate implementation. There are 116 personnel currently serving with UNDOF. The situation in the UNDOF Area of Responsibility (AOR) remains calm.
UNTSO
The Irish personnel serving as UN Observers with UNTSO in Israel, Lebanon and Syria are maintaining a high level of vigilance and continue to monitor the situation. They are ALL safe and well and are complying with UN security precautions. This is predominantly focused around, considerations to unnecessary travel. There are 13 Defence Forces personnel serving with UNTSO.
ENDS
