Tel Aviv: A Hezbollah rocket, originally aimed at Israel, inadvertently struck the Irish-led UNIFIL base in Shamrock, southern Lebanon, causing no injuries, according to senior officials. The incident took place at UN Post 2-45 near At Tiri, close to the camp’s helicopter pad, living quarters, and bunkers. Irish troops on duty were wearing body armour at the time, and safety covers were quickly engaged, minimising any potential harm. Alongside Irish personnel, soldiers from Poland and other nations were present.
This marks the second time in recent days that a Hezbollah-fired rocket has inadvertently struck a UNIFIL facility, following an earlier incident at UNIFIL headquarters in Nakura. The misfire underscores the complex and heightened risk for UN peacekeepers stationed in the region. While senior sources indicate it is unclear if this was an intentional strike against the Irish base, they confirm that Hezbollah has been known to fire rockets from areas near UNIFIL positions.
Ireland’s Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Sean Clancy, noted that the strike appears to be accidental. Prime Minister Simon Harris has confirmed the safety of Irish peacekeepers, while Foreign Minister Micheál Martin emphasised the inherent risks associated with the Israel-Iran conflict. He highlighted this event as an example of the serious implications of the regional conflict, stressing its importance to Irish interests.
The attack has sparked some controversy, as observers noted that several Irish media outlets and political parties critical of Israeli actions remained largely silent on condemning this Hezbollah rocket strike impacting their own peacekeepers.
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