Elaine Loughlin: Martin's quiet but confident diplomacy should be applauded

This constant cultivating and minding of relationships by our Foreign Affairs Minister, it is hoped, will continue to prove successful in protecting Irish citizens trapped in war

Micheál Martin shakes hands with Egyptian foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. Instead of waiting around for a photo-op, the Tánaiste was back on a plane on route to Tel Aviv for yet another round of discussions, which without doubt will be testing. Picture: Khaled Desouki/AFP/Getty

A "vindication for diplomacy" was how the evacuation through the Rafah border of 23 Irish citizens was described by Tánaiste Micheál Martin.

As the call to prayer cried out over central Cairo, Mr Martin emerged into the marble courtyard of the Arab League headquarters after a day of diplomacy, relief etched across his face.