The Italian government has lodged a formal protest against the Israeli authorities following an attack on the headquarters and two Italian bases of the UN peace mission in southern Lebanon. Defence Minister Crosetto labeled the attack as possible war crimes. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed strong support for the Italian military engaged in Lebanon as part of the UNIFIL mission, emphasizing their commitment to the UN mandate. Italy’s ambassador to Israel was summoned, and the government expressed concerns that the acts could constitute war crimes.
Italian Defence Minister Crosetto contacted his Israeli counterpart to protest the attacks, emphasizing the safety of Italian military personnel as a top priority. A meeting of countries contributing to the UN peacekeeping mission has been called for to address the situation. The Israeli ambassador to the UN suggested that UNIFIL move five kilometers north to avoid danger, but the request was rejected.
UNIFIL spokesperson Tenenti condemned the attacks, stating that targeting peacekeepers is a serious violation of international humanitarian law. He emphasized that if the situation in southern Lebanon becomes untenable, the Security Council will decide on the future of the mission. Despite the challenges, UNIFIL remains committed to monitoring and providing assistance in the region.
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