DUBLIN, Ireland: Fifteen Irish citizens and their dependents have been evacuated from Israel due to the heightened state of alert over the Israel-Iran hostilities, and the weekend strikes by the United States on Iran's nuclear facilities. The Tanaiste, Simon Harris, said the group was assisted by the Austrian government and is expected to arrive in Ireland soon.

The evacuation happened after the U.S. launched air and submarine strikes on June 21, targeting Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz. These locations are linked to Iran's nuclear program. In response, Iran struck a US. base in Qatar on Monday. 

Both Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Tánaiste Simon Harris called for an urgent de-escalation and a return to diplomatic talks. They are staying in close contact with other European leaders ahead of key EU meetings on June 26 and 27. A ceasefire has since been announced by U.S President Donald Trump which both Israel and Iran have signed on to.

Harris, who is also Ireland's Minister for Foreign Affairs, described the U.S. strike as a "very dangerous escalation" in what he called a "tinderbox" situation in the Middle East. On June 22, he spoke with Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, who was very angry. Harris said Takht-Ravanchi told him that Iran believes the attackers must be taught a lesson and made to pay a price.

Harris said he made it clear that Ireland and the EU do not support violence and instead want all sides to step back and talk. Taoiseach Martin added that peaceful diplomacy is the only way forward. He urged Iran to give up any plans to develop nuclear weapons and to stop enriching uranium.

Martin warned of the dangers of modern warfare and the impact on civilians. He also said that while the Iran-Israel conflict grabs headlines, the suffering in Gaza should not be forgotten. "People are starving, including children. This is a clear breach of international humanitarian law," he said.

The Irish government is also helping a smaller number of Irish citizens who are still in Iran and have asked for evacuation. So far, about 29 Irish people in Iran and around 200 in Israel have registered with Irish embassies. Harris encouraged all Irish citizens in both countries to stay alert and follow updates.

Staff from Ireland's embassy in Tehran left Iran on Friday. More than 300 Irish peacekeepers are currently in Lebanon, and the government is keeping their safety under close watch. Harris said there are no immediate plans to withdraw the troops, but decisions will be made as needed.

Speaking to RTE Radio, Harris criticised the U.S. airstrikes, calling them a significant risk. "We are in a very dangerous moment. The risk of further escalation is now greater than ever," he said.

Thankfully, the International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed that no increase in radiation has been detected. Harris also pointed out that international law is being ignored in conflicts around the world, including Ukraine, Palestine, and now between Iran and Israel.

However, he noted there is still hope, as Iran has shown some willingness to continue talks. With the ceasefire now in effect, the hope is those talks will now take place.