Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly condemned the Israeli military's recent strikes on UN peacekeeping bases in southern Lebanon, including an attack on a base where approximately 1,100 Italian troops are stationed. Meloni's office released a statement indicating that she personally contacted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express her disapproval of the attacks.
During the call, Meloni emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of UNIFIL personnel, highlighting the mission's role in promoting regional stability based on a Security Council mandate. She reiterated Italy's commitment to supporting the full implementation of Resolution 1701, which aims to stabilize the Israel-Lebanon border and facilitate the return of displaced individuals to their homes.
In response to the escalating tensions, Meloni stressed the urgent need for de-escalation in the region, underscoring that the attacks on UNIFIL were unacceptable. Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto also took action by summoning the Israeli ambassador to Rome to formally lodge a complaint, labeling the attacks on UNIFIL bases as 'war crimes'.
UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon, reported that several peacekeepers had been injured and experienced distress due to smoke inhalation during the recent hostilities. Despite taking precautions, fifteen peacekeepers suffered from skin irritation and gastrointestinal reactions after smoke entered their camp.
Israel has attributed its military actions to the presence of Hezbollah operatives near UNIFIL posts, further complicating the situation in the region. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, with calls for restraint and respect for the safety of peacekeeping forces.
