IDF troops’ position beside Irish outpost an ‘extremely dangerous development’, says UNIFIL

More than 30 Irish troops have been unable to leave the UN outpost on Lebanese border for several days as fighting between Hezbollah and the IDF intensified.

In a statement this evening, UNIFIL said that the position of IDF troops near the outpost, known as UNP-652, was an "extremely dangerous development".

It said: "UNIFIL is deeply concerned by recent activities by the IDF immediately adjacent to the Mission's position 6-52, southeast of Marun ar Ras (Sector West), inside Lebanese territory.

"The IDF has been repeatedly informed of this ongoing situation through regular channels.

"This is an extremely dangerous development. It is unacceptable to compromise the safety of UN peacekeepers carrying out their Security Council-mandated tasks.

"UNIFIL urgently reminds all actors of their obligations to protect UN personnel and property."

Andrea Tenenti, spokesperson for UNIFIL told the Irish Independent: "On 30 September, the IDF notified UNIFIL of their intention to undertake limited ground incursions into Lebanon. They also requested we relocate from some of our positions.

"Peacekeepers remain in all positions and the UN flag continues to fly. We are regularly adjusting our posture and activities, and we have contingency plans ready to activate if absolutely necessary. Peacekeeper safety and security is paramount, and all actors are reminded of their obligation to ensure it.

"We continue to urge Lebanon and Israel to recommit to Security Council resolution 1701 – in actions, not just words – as the only viable solution to bring back stability in the region."

It comes amid reports of almost 20 pieces of Israeli military equipment being placed close to the UN post manned by Irish troops.

RTÉ has obtained imagery showing the military equipment near the base. But the broadcaster stated the Defence Forces requested the images not be published.

RTÉ reported this evening that an image near the Irish post was taken on Saturday afternoon.

It quoted an official in the UN in New York who said: "It's dangerous because firing tends to draw a return fire and our peacekeepers are in bunkers and bad things can happen."

The source added: "We're concerned about the action that the IDF is taking near our peacekeepers..."

RTÉ has reported that the image they've seen shows Israeli tanks and pieces of military equipment positioned in rows.

A spokesperson for the Defence Forces told the Irish Independent: "The Defence Forces is aware of misinformation and imagery circulating" as it asked for official channels to be used for information.

The spokesperson added: "Defence Forces personnel are all accounted for and well. They remain vigilant and in regular contact to update UNIFIL and Defence forces HQs on the ongoing situation. They are focused on and are committed to continuing to uphold the UNIFIL Mandate. They take shelter when they must but they are always monitoring the situation.

"As the lines of engagement move north of UN Post 6-52, it has resulted in extremely restricted movement. Road access has been curtailed by these engagements and the associated defensive actions in place, are still the safest option at this point in time.

"This is a fast moving and dynamic military situation and it is important to have factual and accurate information which our soldiers are providing."

The Defence Forces updated families here telling them that troops are "steadfast in their determination and resilience to fulfill the mission," despite "tough conditions".

The Defence Forces thanked families, adding: "Your strength, patience and support of our troops at this difficult time is much appreciated."

The close positioning of Israeli troops to the Irish UN base has alerted concern in recent days within United Nations Headquarters.

Intense fighting has been underway between the Israeli troops and Hezbollah.

The United Nations had contacted Israel on Friday via diplomatic channels to ask that firing in this area discontinues.