Two soldiers who received minor injuries in an attack on a convoy in Lebanon have been released from hospital.

The incident on Wednesday claimed the life of 24-year-old Private Seán Rooney.

The Defence Forces has said the soldiers released from hospital are safely back in UNP 2-45 - known as Camp Shamrock.

It has also been confirmed an Air Corps CASA aircraft has been pre-positioned in Malta as a contingency.

It will provide support to the 121 Infantry Battalion if required.

Flags have been flying at half-mast at military barracks around the country as a mark of respect to Private Rooney.

Seán Rooney and Christopher O'Neill. Picture by: Christopher O'Neill

His best friend, Christopher O'Neill, has paid tribute to the man he described as "the most kind-hearted, caring person in the world."

Christopher told Newstalk they were like 'brothers.'

"We did everything together; learnt how to walk, how to talk and grown up together over the years, making memories that will last over a lifetime," he said.

“He was funny, witty... He was one of the best people. He’s the most kind-hearted, caring person in the world.

“He loved his friends, he loved his family and he took pride in it," he added.

Main image: File photo shows flags flying at UNP 2-45 - known as Camp Shamrock - in Lebanon. Picture via @irishpolbatt on Twitter