DUBLIN: An Irish soldier on a UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon was killed late on Wednesday when a convoy of two armored utility vehicles headed towards Beirut came under small arms fire, according to a statement by the Irish Defense Forces. I came

According to the statement, a second Irish member of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is in a critical condition following surgery as a result of the incident. Two more jawans have received minor injuries and are undergoing treatment.

The other four members of the convoy who were present were unhurt.

Also Read: China recalls six diplomats in response to the violence in Manchester.

On Thursday, UNIFIL announced that it had launched an investigation and was working with the Lebanese army.

In a statement, UNIFIL said that "at this time, details are scarce and conflicting."

Also Read: New Russia sanctions cannot be agreed upon by EU members

"It is with great regret that Gläigh na hÉireann (Irish Defense Force) can confirm the death of one of our peacekeepers in a serious incident in Lebanon last night," he added.

To discuss the incident, Irish Defense Minister Simon Coveney said he would meet with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres later on Thursday. Coveney is in New York for a meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

Also Read: When the UN biodiversity talks are pressed, developing countries demand more funding

“As a nation, we are very proud of our impeccable track record of UN peacekeeping. The risks associated with this task must always be remembered, however, Irish President Michael D. Higgins stressed in a statement.