Irish Peacekeepers Return Home After Six-Month Lebanon Deployment

Emotional reunions at Dublin Airport follow a challenging mission near the Israel-Lebanon border during escalating regional hostilities.

Over 200 Irish troops from the 124th Infantry Battalion returned to Dublin after a six-month deployment with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
The troops operated in southern Lebanon near the Israel-Lebanon border, an area affected by escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
Irish peacekeepers faced significant challenges, including a rocket strike on their base last month, though no injuries were reported.
Families and loved ones gathered at Dublin Airport for emotional reunions, with many expressing pride and relief after months of limited communication.
The deployment included first-time overseas service for 92 soldiers and was part of a multinational peacekeeping effort involving personnel from Malta, Poland, and Hungary.