Irish Government Urges Its Citizens To Leave Lebanon Soon

The Irish Government has issued a crucial warning urging its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country immediately, pressing upon the urgency of this situation with the message to “leave while it is still possible to do so.” This advisory comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with escalating violence that has caused significant civilian casualties.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin, who serves as Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, made this important statement just ahead of a videoconference meeting of EU Foreign Ministers, where the situation in Lebanon and its broader implications were to be discussed.

The Irish Government has expressed deep concern regarding the safety of its nationals amidst the ongoing conflict, which has seen Israel conduct a series of airstrikes and military operations in Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of civilians.

“Our strong advice to Irish citizens in Lebanon is that they should leave immediately by commercial means while it is still possible to do so,” Mr. Martin stated during a recent press briefing.

This statement reflects the Irish Government‘s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and the proactive measures being taken to facilitate their departure.

The Irish Government has been in regular contact with Irish citizens residing in Lebanon, ensuring that they are informed and supported during this precarious time.

Furthermore, Mr. Martin revealed that the government has undertaken significant contingency planning in collaboration with international partners to prepare for a potential consular crisis in Lebanon.

This planning aims to ensure that, should the situation deteriorate further, the Irish Government is prepared to assist its citizens effectively.

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An extraordinary Foreign Affairs Council meeting held yesterday provided “an opportunity to further coordinate efforts with our EU partners” in solidifying these contingency plans.

Mr. Martin emphasised the importance of international cooperation during these turbulent times, stating, “The Middle East stands on a precipice following the surge in violence in Lebanon.”

The Irish Government is acutely aware that a broader conflict could have disastrous consequences, not just for Lebanon but for the entire region.

In light of this, Mr. Martin has called for immediate de-escalation from all parties involved and expressed the necessity for a ceasefire. “We need to act now to avert this. This must be the priority now,” he asserted, highlighting the critical need for diplomatic efforts to restore peace.

In addition to advocating for the safety of Irish citizens, the Irish Government is also focusing on the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict. “We urgently need to scale up humanitarian assistance to the people of Lebanon, who have already suffered so much and are bearing the brunt of the latest violence,” Mr. Martin stated.

To support this initiative, he announced last week that Ireland would contribute an additional €1 million in humanitarian assistance to Lebanon, aiming to alleviate some of the suffering experienced by the civilian population.

Moreover, the Irish Government has welcomed the decision to extend EU support to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to improve its medical and engineering capabilities. Mr. Martin expressed his anticipation for discussions on how the EU can further strengthen support for the LAF, as stability in Lebanon is crucial for peace in the region.

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Despite the escalating violence, the Tánaiste confirmed that Ireland’s peacekeeping soldiers currently serving in Lebanon are all “safe.” He stated, “I continue to be briefed regularly by the Chief of Staff on the ongoing situation in the UNIFIL areas of operations.”

This reassurance is vital for the families of Irish personnel deployed in Lebanon, as the Irish Government remains committed to their safety and well-being.

“Irish personnel serving in UNIFIL are currently safe and accounted for and shelter in secured positions as and when required,” he added, underscoring the importance of the mission undertaken by the Irish troops in contributing to peacekeeping efforts in Lebanon.

The Irish Government is taking a strong stance to protect its citizens in Lebanon, urging them to leave the country while it remains feasible. As tensions escalate and the humanitarian crisis deepens, the Irish Government continues to advocate for peace and support the Lebanese population.

The commitment to the safety of its citizens and broader regional stability is a priority for the Irish Government, reflecting a strong and proactive foreign policy in the face of adversity.