Last-ditch effort to get Belfast toddler out of Lebanon fails

Because David is a citizen of the UK, Ireland and Lebanon, Mr O’Hurley called on the prime ministers of the three countries to become involved.

“We’ve asked that Prime Minister Starmer and an Taoiseach Simon Harris telephone their counterpart, Najib Mikati to request his assistance with David’s evacuation.”

A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it was providing consular assistance and was in contact with local authorities in Lebanon.

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs said it is aware of the case and has provided advice and guidance.

BBC Spotlight tracked down David’s father in Beirut last month and he told the programme he did not intend to allow his son to leave Lebanon.

The latest development comes days after Israel launched an invasion of Lebanon.

Attacks in southern Beirut, where it is believed David is living with his father, killed nine people overnight.

Israel has warned people in dozens of places in southern Lebanon to evacuate.