Northern Ireland citizens abroad have been advised to shelter in place following US and Israeli strikes on Iran over the weekend. Missiles and debris fell across the region as Iran responded with ballistic missiles and drones against Arab neighbours. Flights out of the area remain cancelled, leaving some residents unable to return home.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly attended a briefing and plans to continue doing so. The meetings, arranged by the Cabinet Office, inform politicians from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland about the conflict's effects.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill declined to attend, calling one session a British Government update on its military operations. DUP MLA Gordon Lyons, an Executive member, described her absence as a dereliction of duty.

Lyons stated that families in Northern Ireland need leadership and information during the crisis. He noted that residents hold various passports but deserve representation regardless of identities.

SDLP leader Matthew O'Toole said both Executive parties share responsibility for the lack of a unified response. He added that O'Neill had no justification for missing the sessions to advocate for constituents.

Alliance MP Sorcha Eastwood argued that participation provides a voice on issues affecting Northern Ireland without implying endorsement of actions. The TUV labelled O'Neill's decision a dereliction of duty.