Situation becomes 'relatively calm' for Irish peacekeepers as IDF withdraw from Irish UN Post
Defence Forces have confirmed that peacekeepers are safe after the withdrawal of IDF from Irish Post area
There have been significant developments regarding the proximity of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to Irish positions in Lebanon.
Recent reports confirm that the IDF has vacated the area surrounding UN Post 6-52, where Irish peacekeepers are stationed. The Defence Forces have confirmed that there are currently no IDF personnel or vehicles observed in the vicinity of this Post, having moved North of the Post yesterday evening.
The ceased activity and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from their positions around the Irish post marks a positive development amidst heightened tensions in the region.
The situation around Irish positions is said to have remained relatively calm over the course of last night, although clashes between both parties to the conflict persist in other areas of the Irish sector.
Reports from Lebanon indicate that more intense clashes are occurring in other parts of the United Nations Interim Forcein Lebanon (UNIFIL) Area of Operations. Irish peacekeepers are said to be continuing to monitor and report any violations of UNSCR 1701 by all parties involved, maintaining an independent and impartial stance.
As it stands, there are 364 Irish personnel deployed in UNIFIL, 353 deployed with the 124 Infantry Battalion, six with UNIFIL HQ in Naquora, three in UNIFIL Sector west HQ and two with Observer Group Lebanon (OGL).