AN Irish peacekeeper has died after the vehicle he was in came under fire in Lebanon.
The soldier’s identity or where he was from has not yet been released.
In a statement this morning, Óglaigh na hÉireann said it was with deep regret that it had to confirm the death of one of its members. A second officer remains in a serious condition.
“On December 14 at approximately 9.15pm Irish time a serious incident took place involving members of 121st Infantry Battalion, UNIFIL.
“A convoy of two Armoured Utility Vehicles (AUVs) carrying eight personnel travelling to Beirut came under small arms fire.
“Four personnel were taken to Raee Hospital, near Sidon as a result of the incident. One soldier was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital and another has undergone surgery and is in a serious condition. The other two soldiers are being treated for minor injuries.”
The Defence Forces said a medical officer from the 121st Infantry Battalion is currently with the soldiers in Raee Hospital.
“The names of personnel are not being released by the Defence Forces at this time, but the families of those involved have been informed. A full investigation will commence into this incident.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)