The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces has denied that food and water supplies are running low for Irish troops in Lebanon.

There are currently 340 Irish soldiers working for the United Nations in the southern part of the country and concern has been raised about their safety. 

Reports this morning suggested that conditions at Camp Shamrock are extremely difficult, with reduced access to essential supplies.

However, Lieutenant General Seán Clancy said there is more than enough food and water for Irish troops. 

“Part of our mitigations in advance of this escalation was to have re-supplies and 30 days plus available in all locations for the Irish personnel overseas,” he said. 

“The last couple of days has, of course, initiated that supply chain; we have ample supply of water, food and common necessities available at this time.”

The Defence Forces would like to acknowledge and thank the families of our soldiers currently deployed in Lebanon. Today the Chief of Staff reiterated that a deployment overseas is not just the soldier getting on the plane but those we leave at home too. Your strength, patience… pic.twitter.com/ktZBtPfW8Y

— Óglaigh na hÉireann (@defenceforces) October 2, 2024

Lieutenant General Clancy said despite the difficult conditions troops are enduring, morale in Lebanon is “good” and the soldiers are feeling “resolute”. 

“The resilience of the soldiers is extraordinary,” he said. 

“They’re carrying out their duties to the utmost.” 

Tánaiste Micheál Martin has said the Government is ready to charter a private flight to evacuate Irish citizens from Lebanon if the conflict necessary.

In the meantime, the Department of Foreign Affairs has urged people to leave while commercial options are still available.

Main image: An Irish peacekeeper. Picture by: UN Photo/Pasqual Gorriz.