Irish premier meets Lebanese counterpart, reiterates support amid ongoing Israeli attacks

By Burak Bir

LONDON (AA) - Ireland's taoiseach (prime minister) on Friday met with Lebanon's premier in Dublin, expressing his country's support and solidarity amid ongoing Israeli attacks.

Simon Harris welcomed Najib Mikati at the Government Buildings in the capital. It is the first visit by a Lebanese prime minister to Ireland.

According to a statement by Harris' office, the leaders had a substantive discussion, in which Mikati offered Harris a "sobering assessment" of the situation on the ground and the challenges his government faces in managing the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, including the needs of the very large number of displaced people.

The leaders called for an immediate cease-fire and "the full and faithful implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701," read the statement.

During the meeting, the Irish premier offered the Lebanese counterpart his support and solidarity and stressed the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of UNIFIL peacekeepers and protecting their ability to fulfil their mandate.

Speaking after the meeting, Harris noted that they discussed the "deeply concerning escalation" of violence in Lebanon and the devasting impact it is having on civilians.

Harris also reassured Mikati that the Lebanese people can rely on the support and solidarity of Ireland.

Reminding that Ireland pledged an additional €5 million ($5.3 million) at this week's conference in Paris for Lebanon, Harris underlined that his country will continue to support those most in need across the region.

"The targeting of peacekeepers is a violation of international humanitarian law and cannot be accepted. Israel and Hezbollah have an obligation to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers," added Harris.

Early Firday, Mikati met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in London focusing on achieving a cease-fire in the region.

Israel mounted a huge air campaign in Lebanon last month against what it says are Hezbollah targets in an escalation from a year of cross-border warfare between Israel and the group since the start of Israel’s brutal offensive on Gaza.

Over 2,600 people have been killed and more than 12,200 injured in Israeli attacks since October last year, according to Lebanese health authorities.

Israel expanded the conflict on Oct. 1 this year by launching a ground assault into southern Lebanon.