ROME: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned attacks on United Nations peacekeepers as “unacceptable” following accusations that Israeli troops fired at their positions in southern Lebanon.
Meloni, the first head of state to visit Lebanon since the recent escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, emphasized the need for the protection of the UNIFIL force, which includes Italian soldiers.
During a press conference with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, she stated, “I consider targeting UNIFIL unacceptable, and I urge all parties to ensure the safety of these soldiers at all times.” Italy contributes around 1,000 troops to the UN’s peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, which has faced increasing fire amid the ongoing conflict.
Recent incidents have resulted in five peacekeepers being injured, with the UN accusing Israeli forces of breaching a gate to enter one of their positions. On Sunday, UNIFIL requested explanations from the Israeli army regarding what they described as “shocking violations,” including forced entry.
Meloni said that “UNIFIL must be strengthened,” emphasizing that enhancing the mission while maintaining its impartiality is crucial for moving forward from the war.
Established in 1978, UNIFIL comprises about 10,000 troops from various nations and was created to monitor Israel’s withdrawal after its invasion of Lebanon and to assist the Lebanese government in restoring authority over the border region.
Forty nations contributing to the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, have strongly condemned attacks on the peacekeepers stationed there. The joint statement, shared by the Polish UN mission and supported by key contributors such as Indonesia, Italy, India, and several others, urged an immediate cessation of these hostile actions and called for thorough investigations into the incidents.
