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 the 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. Moscow is indifferent. 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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What are the implications of recent attacks on UN peacekeeping forces in Lebanon for international law and the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions?
**Interview with Dr. Laura Mendez, International Relations Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Mendez. There have been significant developments regarding attacks on UN peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, specifically against the Italian military base. What does this signify in terms of international law and peacekeeping efforts?
**Dr. Mendez:** Thank you for having me. The attacks on UN peacekeepers are indeed concerning and highlight a critical violation of international law. UN Security Council Resolution 1701 clearly mandates the protection of peacekeepers, and any attack against them is an affront not only to their mission but also undermines the broader goals of peace and security in the region. Such incidents can escalate tensions and hinder ongoing peace initiatives.
**Interviewer:** The Italian government has responded strongly, describing these attacks as unacceptable. What should be the international response to such violations?
**Dr. Mendez:** The international community should unite in condemning these attacks unequivocally. It is essential for countries to call for accountability from those responsible, whether it be militant groups or state actors. Additionally, reinforcing the mandate and protection for peacekeeping forces through diplomatic means or even considering enhanced sanctions against those undermining peace will send a strong message.
**Interviewer:** Recent news also reported the issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli leaders for alleged war crimes. This adds another layer to the already complex situation. How do you view the West’s divided response, particularly from figures like President Biden?
**Dr. Mendez:** The divided Western response reflects the ongoing complexities of international politics in the region. While the U.S. has consistently supported Israel, their criticism of the ICC’s actions demonstrates a reluctance to hold allies accountable, regardless of the accusations. This lack of a unified stance can lead to perceptions of double standards, which may erode trust among various stakeholders involved in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
**Interviewer:** So, in your opinion, what steps should be taken now to ensure the safety of peacekeepers and address the ongoing violence in the region?
**Dr. Mendez:** Immediate dialog is crucial. A renewed emphasis on negotiations between all parties involved should be prioritized. This involves not only urging states to respect the mandates of peacekeeping forces but also facilitating talks to address the underlying issues of conflict. Multilateral efforts, including those led by international organizations, can create pathways for de-escalation and ultimately aid in upholding peace in the region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Mendez, for your insights. It’s clear that the situation remains intricate and requires collective action and continuous dialog to ensure peace and security.
**Dr. Mendez:** You’re welcome. It’s a critical moment, and I hope to see constructive efforts from the international community to navigate these challenges.