The bases of the Unifil mission in southern Lebanon are back under attack. The Italian headquarters in Shama was hit again. This time there are injuries, four, fortunately not life-threatening. In the early hours of the day, the mission announced, two 122 mm rockets hit a bunker and a logistics area used by the international military police, causing significant damage to nearby infrastructure. One of the structures caught fire, but the flames were quickly put out. Due to the explosion, some glass shattered, hitting the four soldiers belonging to the Sassari Brigade, who immediately received treatment at the base hospital. Recalling that “any attack against peacekeepers constitutes a serious violation of international law and of UN Security Council Resolution 1701”, Unifil, which evoked the responsibility of Hezbollah or affiliated groups, urged the parties struggling to avoid fighting near its positions: “Deliberate or accidental attacks against peacekeepers must cease immediately.”
The attack sparked outrage from the Italian government. Our contingent “remains in southern Lebanon to offer a window of opportunity for peace and cannot become hostage to militia attacks”, commented Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, informing that he had immediately contacted the headquarters to ensure the conditions of the military, “it is intolerable that once again a Unifil base has been hit”. Crosetto then announced that he wanted to “speak with the new Israeli Defense Minister, which has been impossible since his inauguration until today, to ask him to avoid using the Unifil bases as a shield”. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni learned the news of the new attacks “with profound indignation and concern” and reiterated “once again” that “they are unacceptable”. Meloni then renewed the appeal “so that the parties on the ground guarantee, at all times, the safety of the Unifil soldiers and collaborate to quickly identify those responsible”. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani remarked that, “just as we told Israel to pay maximum attention, we say it equally firmly to Hezbollah. The Italian military cannot be touched”, “Hezbollah learns to use weapons, which evidently he doesn’t know how to use and causes damage.” “Intolerable criminal acts” is the summary of the Democratic Party secretary Elly Schlein, who asked “at the same time that the government report as soon as possible on the initiatives that are being adopted for the ceasefire”. A firm condemnation of the attacks, which represent “a serious and unacceptable violation of international law”, also came from EU High Representative for Foreign Policy Josep Borrell.
And the announcement by the International Criminal Court in The Hague of the issuing of arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accused of war crimes and against humanity in the Gaza Strip. The West appears divided on the decision and its possible application. US President Joe Biden defined it as “scandalous”, “whatever the ICC may insinuate, there is no equivalence, none, between Israel and Hamas. We will always be at Israel’s side against threats to its security”. While President-elect Donald Trump, according to Israeli media, is considering personal sanctions against the chief prosecutor of the ICC Karim Khan and the judges who issued the warrants. Viktor Orban is also ready to challenge the Hague Court. The Hungarian prime minister confirmed that the mandate “will not be respected” and invited Netanyahu to the country. The German government “takes note” of the sentence, adding that it will evaluate “further steps” only “when a visit to Germany by Netanyahu and Gallant is foreseeable”. Paris also takes note of the ICC’s decision, reiterating loyalty “to its long-standing commitment to supporting international justice”, but without specifying whether it will carry out arrests if the two accused were to enter French territory. Madrid and London, however, have assured that they are ready to execute the arrest warrants. Indifferent Moscow. The Kremlin has made it known that it considers the Hague decisions to be “insignificant” and of no legal value, considering that an arrest warrant has also been issued against Putin. Beijing instead hopes that the Court “maintains an objective and impartial position and exercises its powers in accordance with the law and in accordance with the unified standards, and that it fully and in good faith interprets and applies the Rome Statute and the laws general”.
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In what ways might the geopolitical responses from the Italian government and the EU influence the ongoing conflict dynamics in the region?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Rossi, International Relations Expert**
**Host:** Welcome to our show, Dr. Rossi. Today, we are witnessing significant events in the Middle East, especially concerning the recent attack on the Unifil base in Lebanon and the ICC’s arrest warrants for Israeli officials. What are your thoughts on these developments?
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. The attack on the Unifil base is indeed alarming and demonstrates the ongoing volatility in the region. The injuries to Italian soldiers underline not just the risks faced by peacekeepers, but also the broader implications of escalating conflicts in areas like southern Lebanon. Attacks on peacekeeping forces often violate international law, and as highlighted by multiple government officials, these incidents must be condemned.
**Host:** In the aftermath of the attack, we’ve seen strong responses from the Italian government and the EU. Do you think this will lead to any tangible change in the situation on the ground?
**Dr. Rossi:** It’s difficult to predict immediate changes. The Italian Defense Minister and Prime Minister have expressed their outrage and called for accountability, which is crucial for maintaining diplomatic pressure. However, the situation is complex, and geopolitical dynamics play a significant role. Both Hezbollah and Israeli actions need to be carefully managed to prevent further escalation.
**Host:** Speaking of geopolitical dynamics, how do you interpret the ICC’s decision to issue arrest warrants against Israeli officials?
**Dr. Rossi:** The issuance of arrest warrants by the ICC is significant and reflects increasing scrutiny of actions taken in conflict zones. However, as U.S. President Biden stated, there is a political dimension to this—perceptions of equity between Israeli forces and Hamas complicate international responses. Allies like the U.S. often prioritize security partnerships, which can influence how international law is applied or perceived.
**Host:** Some argue that the ICC’s actions risk further polarizing opinions in the West. Do you agree?
**Dr. Rossi:** Absolutely. The ICC’s decisions can exacerbate divisions within international coalitions. If countries begin to feel that their strategic relationships are at odds with legal actions, it could lead to significant diplomatic rifts. Maintaining a unified stance on issues of international law, while also supporting allies in conflict, is a delicate balancing act that leaders need to navigate carefully.
**Host:** Lastly, what can you say about the impact of these events on international peacekeeping efforts in the Middle East?
**Dr. Rossi:** The recent violence, including attacks on peacekeepers, poses a serious challenge to international efforts at stabilization. Peacekeeping missions face increasing hostility, making it difficult to operate effectively. Long-term peace in the region will require not only the cessation of violence against such forces but also a collaborative approach from all involved parties to address the underlying issues at play.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights today. It’s clear that these events have far-reaching implications that the international community must address thoughtfully.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. It’s important that we continue to discuss these critical issues as they unfold.