Ireland criticised for 'freeloading' on other states to evacuate citizens

A Hezbollah UAV was intercepted by Israeli air forces over North Israel on Sunday. Picture: Jalaa Marey/AFP

A former head of the elite army ranger wing has criticised the Government for "freeloading" on other states to evacuate Irish citizens and troops from Lebanon should a full-scale war break out in the region.

Independent TD Cathal Berry, who formerly commanded Ireland’s special forces, has blasted “no substance” statements from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Defence on what they will do in the event of major conflict breaking out in the Middle East.