The United Nations Security Council has denounced a  terrorist attack in Egypt on Monday, that reportedly killed nine policemen and injured more than 13 people.

Reports say a bomber rammed a building with a lorry filled with explosives, and militants then opened fire on the police station.

In a press statement issued overnight, the UN "condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack" that took place in the northern Sinai city of Al-Arish.

The council also “reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.”

The council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors to justice.

It also urged states to cooperate actively with the Egyptian government and all other relevant authorities.

"Any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed," the council reiterated.

While Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan "unreservedly" condemned the attack.

"I offer the sympathies of the Irish people and the Government of Ireland to the families of those who lost their lives...to those who were injured and to the Egyptian nation at this difficult time.

"Egypt has repeatedly suffered from the scourge of terrorism in recent years and this latest terrorist attack in Egypt represents an unacceptable crime against the Egyptian nation.

"Terrorism threatens the safety and rights of all Egyptians and I condemn this attack unreservedly."

The Department of Foreign Affairs is advising Irish citizens in Egypt to exercise a high degree of caution – a position unchanged since December.