Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Like other Senators, I wish to comment on the issues relating to Lebanon and that part of the world. The scenes we are seeing are absolutely frightening. It is something we thought we would never again see. The past year has been really terrible there. What has been happening in Gaza has been absolutely frightening, particularly with the loss of life and injuries to children there. Last week, I came across a figure stating that 30,000 children in Gaza have lost limbs. That is unbelievable. We have never seen anything like it in our entire lives.

Now, Lebanon has come into focus. Our troops who are working there very competently and capably have been affected. There were manoeuvres literally within 2 km of their base in recent days, which is very significant. It is a very troubling situation to say the very least. Of course, the American election ties into that. We will see how that play outs or not with regard to trying to find a solution for what is happening in Lebanon.

I want to put on the record my absolute horror at what is happening. It is beyond belief and beyond mankind's understanding that things have been torn apart in that part of the world. There is frustration. Within my family, my girls in particular are looking at this stuff and wondering where the world is going and when will it stop. I do not know if I am despondent. I just do not know the pathway by means of which this war can end. The mayhem, the chaos and the loss of life have been absolutely frightening. Israel needs to step back from the brink. I do not know where this will stop. Matters could go all the way unless Israel steps back. From our point of view, all we can ever do is send our best wishes to our peacekeepers in Lebanon. Perhaps the Cathaoirleach might do that. They need to be acknowledged for their great work. We need a renewed focus to try to achieve peace in that part of the world.