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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How can the Italian government effectively balance outrage over attacks on its peacekeepers with the need for diplomatic engagement in the region?
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. Let’s jump straight into the recent events in Lebanon involving the UNIFIL mission. There were rocket attacks on the Italian headquarters that resulted in injuries. Can you share your thoughts on the implications of such attacks on international peacekeeping forces?
**Guest:** Thank you for having me. These attacks are deeply concerning and highlight the growing volatility in the region. Attacks against peacekeepers not only violate international law but also undermine the efforts of those on the ground who are there to support stability and security. It’s crucial that all parties involved respect the neutrality of peacekeeping missions and ensure the safety of their personnel.
**Interviewer:** The Italian government has expressed outrage over these attacks, with officials calling them intolerable. What steps do you think they should take moving forward to address this situation?
**Guest:** The government’s strong condemnation is a necessary first step. They need to engage diplomatically with both Israel and Hezbollah to ensure that UNIFIL bases are respected. Additionally, it may be essential for Italy to work closely with the United Nations and international allies to investigate these incidents thoroughly and implement measures to enhance the protection of peacekeeping forces.
**Interviewer:** In parallel, there’s been significant international discourse regarding the arrest warrants issued by the ICC for Israeli leaders, accused of war crimes. How does this situation complicate diplomatic relations in the region?
**Guest:** The ICC’s decision to issue arrest warrants is incredibly contentious and reflects the complex nature of international law and accountability. It has understandably polarized opinions, as seen with statements from US President Biden. Such divisions can complicate diplomatic relations significantly, particularly when allies are at odds over perceptions of justice and security. Open dialog is vital to navigate these tensions, as is a commitment to uphold human rights for all parties involved.
**Interviewer:** The U.N. and various leaders have clearly stated that violence against peacekeepers is unacceptable. What would you like to see from both sides to prevent further escalation of violence?
**Guest:** Both sides must commit to de-escalation talks and ensure accountability for such violent actions. This means adhering strictly to international law and engaging in dialog rather than armed confrontation. It’s essential for entities like Hezbollah to understand that such attacks can have broader repercussions, not just for their conflict but also for regional stability. All involved should prioritize the safety of civilians and peacekeepers to foster a conducive environment for negotiations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights on these pressing issues. It’s clear that both diplomatic and strategic measures must be taken to address the evolving situation in Lebanon and the broader Middle East.
**Guest:** Absolutely, and I hope for a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the safety and rights of all individuals in the region. Thank you for having me.
