Ireland’s peacekeeping troops at an embattled UN outpost in Lebanon are “well stocked with fresh food” after the Israeli army's withdrawal from the area.

Around 30 Irish soldiers are stationed at the UNP 6-52, which has seen heavy fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in recent days.

Last night, the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres confirmed that he had taken a number of steps with different entities aimed at relieving the pressure on the Irish troops.

He said the Israeli army had left the area in the hours since, adding, ‘I strongly appeal to both parties to fully respect the safety and security” of the UN’s peacekeeping forces in Lebanon.

"Well stocked"

In a statement, the Defence Forces confirmed that there were no Israeli Defence Forces personnel or vehicles left in the area.

They noted that Ireland’s peacekeepers are “maintaining a robust operational presence” and are well equipped with enough provisions to ensure the long-term sustainability of the mission.

“This includes adequate supplies of food and water, which are essential to meet the operational needs of the troops throughout their deployment,” they said.

“Troops in Irish posts are being sustained by three meals of a combination of fresh and frozen food and pre-prepared convenience meals from rations packs.

“A bulk delivery of locally purchased food was received by troops at [Camp Shamrock] today.

“Troops in UNP 6-52 remain well stocked with fresh food and have yet to open their ration pack stores.”

Camp Shamrock store of water and rations. Image: Defence Forces

The Defence Forces said Ireland’s soldiers remain committed to their mission as the “strategic landscape” in Lebanon continues to evolve.

“The Irish Defence Forces continue to perform their duties with professionalism and courage, serving as vital components in factually reporting the live situation,” they said.

"Extremely welcome"

Meanwhile, the Taoiseach Simon Harris thanked Mr Guterres or his efforts and the Irish soldiers for their service.

“This is extremely welcome news,” he said.

“The safety of our soldiers is paramount and when I spoke to Secretary General Guterres last night he was completely at one with me on the urgency of the situation.

“I thank the Secretary General for his efforts following our discussions.

“It is important to note that our troops are highly trained and professional and they continue to do their jobs.

“The situation in Southern Lebanon remains tense and dangerous and we will continue to review and monitor it very closely.”

'Destruction and suffering'

Meanwhile, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened the people of Lebanon with the same level of “destruction and suffering” the Palestinians are enduring in Gaza if they fail to “free” their country from Hezbollah.

“You have an opportunity to save Lebanon before it falls into the abyss of a long war that will lead to destruction and suffering like we see in Gaza,” He said in a video address directed to the people of Lebanon.

Mr Netanyahu is due to speak to the US President Joe Biden by phone later today.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris is also due to meet the US President at the White House as part of his visit to Washington today.

The meeting has been reduced to 30-minutes due to the threat Hurricane Milton poses to the US.