Statement by Minister McEntee on developments in Lebanon

The deteriorating security situation in Lebanon is extremely worrying and will undoubtedly set back the years of progress made in the country. The attack on a UNIFIL position today is unacceptable. I am in contact with the Chief of Staff and can confirm that all Irish personnel deployed in Southern Lebanon are well and accounted for. All necessary force protection measures continue to be observed. I condemn any attack on UNIFIL personnel and remind all parties of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers at all times.

I condemn Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel in support of its Iranian sponsor. As well as menacing civilian communities in northern Israel, this has again endangered Lebanon.

I also condemn the disproportionate Israeli response, including aerial bombardment, the launch of ground operations and the demand to evacuate civilian populations in southern Lebanon and southern Beirut. I raised these concerns in the meeting between EU and Gulf Cooperation Council Foreign Ministers yesterday and I discussed the situation with my Lebanese counterpart yesterday evening.

This week’s hostilities have set back fragile progress made in Lebanon in the past year, including towards the disarmament of Hezbollah. The Lebanese government and Armed Forces need time to take full control of and manage the security of their country. I call again on all sides to abide by the terms of the November 2024 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Ireland is committed to supporting the people of Lebanon. Together with our EU partners, we are determined to assist Lebanon in its recovery and rebuilding. The long-suffering people of Lebanon must be given an opportunity to have peace.

ENDS

Press Office

6 March 2026