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”.
#Lebanon #Hezbollah #rockets #Unifil #clash #arrest #warrant #Netanyahu #Tempo
In light of the U.S. and European divisions over international accountability in conflict situations, what role do you believe Italy can play in bridging these differences and promoting peace?
**Interview with Foreign Policy Expert Dr. Elena Rossi**
*Interviewer:* Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rossi. The recent attacks on the Unifil base in southern Lebanon that injured Italian soldiers have raised serious concerns. What is your take on these events?
*Dr. Rossi:* Thank you for having me. The attacks on the Unifil base are alarming and represent not only a breach of international law but also a significant threat to peacekeeping efforts in the region. As cited by EU High Representative Josep Borrell, any attack against peacekeepers is unacceptable and undermines the stability that these forces aim to maintain.
*Interviewer:* The Italian government has responded firmly, with Defense Minister Guido Crosetto emphasizing the importance of protecting their troops. How do you see Italy’s role evolving in this context?
*Dr. Rossi:* Italy’s commitment to maintaining a peacekeeping presence in Lebanon is crucial, especially amidst increasing hostilities. The Italian government is right to demand the protection of its forces. With calls for dialog with Israel, Italy seems to navigate a delicate path, ensuring its troops are safeguarded while also fostering cooperation to address the broader security issues in the region.
*Interviewer:* We also saw a strong reaction from US President Joe Biden regarding the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, labeling it “scandalous.” How do you interpret the West’s divided stance on this issue?
*Dr. Rossi:* The division you mention highlights the complex dynamics at play in international politics. The U.S. has historically been a steadfast ally of Israel, emphasizing its security concerns over human rights violations. This reaction reflects a broader geopolitical strategy that prioritizes alliance and security. However, this may also lead to increased tensions within the international community, as many countries are advocating for accountability regarding actions taken in Gaza.
*Interviewer:* With all these tensions, what steps do you believe should be taken to de-escalate the situation?
*Dr. Rossi:* First and foremost, it is vital for all parties involved to prioritize dialog and diplomatic channels. Immediate calls for a ceasefire and ensuring the protection of civilian and peacekeeping lives should be paramount. Additionally, the international community must come together to push for an independent investigation into any potential war crimes, which could pave the way for rebuilding trust and stability in the region.
*Interviewer:* Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights. It’s clear that the path to peace is fraught with challenges, and your expertise sheds light on the complexities involved.
*Dr. Rossi:* Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep these discussions alive as we strive for a peaceful resolution in such a turbulent region.
