There are approximately 380 Irish troops in various bases in the Middle East. While military officials believe there is no specific risk to the safety of Irish troops from Iranian or Israeli-American attacks, protective measures have been taken in light of ongoing hostilities. On Sunday, at least nine people were killed by Iranian missiles in Beit Shemesh, a city near Jerusalem where Irish UNTSO members are stationed. Immediately before launching strikes on Iran, Israeli forces targeted several areas in Lebanon with air strikes. Irish Unifil troops were not required to take shelter and have been able to continue mission operations.

Source: The Irish Times March 01, 2026 19:03 UTC