Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently visited Beirut and expressed her support for strengthening the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, UNIFIL. Meloni condemned the recent attacks on UNIFIL by Israeli troops and emphasized the importance of maintaining the mission’s impartiality.
During a joint news conference with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Meloni called for all parties to prioritize the safety of UNIFIL soldiers. Italy currently has about 1,000 peacekeepers serving in UNIFIL, which has faced multiple attacks in recent weeks.
UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti highlighted the challenges faced by peacekeepers, including deliberate attacks by Israeli forces and rockets launched by Hezbollah near their positions. The deteriorating security situation has forced UNIFIL to suspend certain patrols near the Lebanon-Israel border.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah announced a new phase in its conflict with Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, introducing new weapons and tactics. The Israeli army responded by calling up reserve forces for operational missions in northern Israel.
The ongoing violence in the region underscores the need for a diplomatic solution, as emphasized by both Meloni and Mikati during their meeting in Beirut. It is crucial for all parties to work towards peace to avoid further casualties and displacement in the region.
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