Explosions in Lebanon mark an 'unacceptable escalation of violence', says Tánaiste

Micheál Martin said the detonations risked inflaming an already tense situation in the Middle East, increasing 'the risk of a wider conflict in the region'

Referring to negotiations around the conflict in Gaza, Mr Martin called for "renewed efforts to reach agreement in mediation efforts led by Egypt, Qatar and the United States to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal". Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

The explosions which killed at least 26 people and wounded thousands in Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday represent an "unacceptable escalation of violence" which increases "the risk of a wider conflict" in the Middle East, the Tánaiste has said.

At least 12 people were killed, and about 2,800 people were wounded as hundreds of pagers used by Hezbollah members began exploding across Lebanon on Tuesday.