The new Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, has advised Irish citizens against traveling to Lebanon.
Mr Martin expressed his concern over the ongoing unpredictable and volatile security situation in Beirut.
"In response to the outbreak of violence in parts of Beirut in recent days, my Department is advising Irish citizens against all travel to Lebanon at this time."
"The decision to upgrade our advice has been taken following close consultation among all EU Member States," he said.
He urged Irish citizens living in Lebanon to take all appropriate security precautions and to register their contact details on the Department of Foreign Affairs website, www.dfa.ie.