PM Giorgia Meloni plans to visit Lebanon in response to increasing attacks on UN peacekeepers by Israeli forces. She condemned these actions as violations of U.N. Resolution 1701. Italy maintains its commitment to UNIFIL, deploying 1,000 troops, and has approved €17 million in aid for displaced Lebanese civilians. Meloni’s office has yet to confirm the exact date for her visit.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is planning a visit to Lebanon amid escalating tensions regarding attacks on United Nations peacekeepers by Israeli forces. In her address to the Italian Senate, Meloni condemned these actions, stating they represent a “blatant violation” of U.N. Resolution 1701, which seeks to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Meloni noted that Italy is Europe’s largest contributor of troops to the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon, with 1,000 Italian soldiers deployed. Despite recent attacks that injured five peacekeepers, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani affirmed that the Italian forces will remain in the region. Meloni emphasized the commitment to maintain peace in compliance with international humanitarian law.
Meloni also highlighted the recent approval of €17 million in aid for Lebanese citizens displaced by ongoing violence. On Saturday, she condemned the attacks and reiterated Italy’s stance that the safety of its personnel must be ensured. Tajani stated, “Hands off Italian soldiers, they are not Hezbollah militants,” addressing the protection of Italian troops.
Additionally, 40 nations involved in UNIFIL have criticized the Israeli strikes on peacekeepers and demanded an investigation into these incidents. Meloni’s visit is anticipated as a diplomatic effort to address these issues and reaffirm Italy’s support for peace in the region.
In summary, Prime Minister Meloni’s planned visit to Lebanon highlights Italy’s commitment to its peacekeeping role amid increasing tensions and attacks on UNIFIL forces. While condemning the Israeli actions against peacekeepers as unacceptable and a violation of international law, Meloni emphasizes Italy’s support for Israel’s right to peace, provided it aligns with humanitarian principles. The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and support the Lebanese population impacted by the hostilities.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
