Irish Foreign Affairs Minister to attend funeral of former Israeli president Shimon Peres

A massive security operation is in place in Jerusalem today for the funeral of former Israeli president Shimon Peres.

The 93 year old passed away on Wednesday after suffering a major stroke.

He's credited as playing a key role in reaching the Oslo peace accords - the first deal between Israel and the Palestinians.

Mr Peres received the Nobel Peace Prize in '94 but critics - claim he was a war criminal responsible for the murder of Palestinian civilians.

Ireland will be represented by Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan at the service later.