Italian President Giorgia Meloni’s Concerns over Israeli Actions in Lebanon
Italian President Giorgia Meloni has decided to address the Lebanese situation amidst escalating tensions in the region. She will be the first foreign leader to visit Beirut since Israeli forces clashed with Hezbollah in late September. Her visit, scheduled before Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani’s upcoming trips to Tel Aviv and Ramallah, is primarily focused on the ongoing tensions surrounding the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Italian Military Presence and Condemnation of Israeli Aggression
Italian troops, comprising a significant contingent of around 1,200 soldiers within the UNIFIL mission, have faced aggression and intimidation from Israeli forces near their bases. Despite assurances from the Israeli Foreign Minister regarding the safety of Italian troops, incidents of Israeli incursions and attacks on Italian positions have raised concerns.
European Union’s Response and Commitment to Lebanon
In response to the escalating situation, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto convened a meeting with the Israeli ambassador in Rome, while also participating in a virtual conference with his French counterpart and defense ministers of other EU countries involved in UNIFIL. The EU ministers expressed unanimous concern over the Israeli attacks, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a presence in Lebanon and applying diplomatic pressure to prevent further incidents.
Shift in Italy’s Stance and European Concerns
The recent tensions between Italy and Israel, amidst broader European worries regarding the conflict in southern Lebanon, come at a time when Italy’s right-wing government, led by Giorgia Meloni, has demonstrated support for Israel. This support has coexisted with appeals for a two-state solution and futile calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Leave a Reply