Outrage over yet another episode against the peacekeepers in Lebanon. Four Italian soldiers from the Unifil mission were injured following the launch of two 122 mm rockets fired at the UNP 2-3 base in Shama, in southern Lebanon, which hosts the Italian contingent and the Western Sector Command of Unifil. The military would not be serious. According to the initial reconstruction of the Ministry of Defense, the two rockets hit a bunker on the base and a room near the international military police, causing damage to the surrounding infrastructure. Some glass shattered due to the explosion, hitting the four soldiers. The two rockets could belong to Hezbollah, as reported by Rainews 24.
“I learn with deep indignation and concern the news of the new attacks suffered by the Italian headquarters of Unifil in southern Lebanon, which also caused the wounding of some of our soldiers engaged in a peacekeeping mission”, states the president of I recommend Giorgia Meloni. “I would like to express my and the Government’s solidarity and closeness to the wounded, their families and sincere gratitude for the activity carried out daily by the entire Italian contingent in Lebanon. I reiterate once again”, continues Meloni, “that such attacks are unacceptable and I renew my appeal for the parties on the ground to guarantee, at all times, the safety of Unifil soldiers and to collaborate to quickly identify those responsible”.
“I immediately contacted the Commander of the Contingent, Brigadier General Stefano Messina – says the Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto – to make sure of the conditions of the four soldiers, who do not cause concern. I also contacted my Lebanese counterpart reiterating that the Italian contingent of Unifil remains in southern Lebanon to offer a window of opportunity for peace and cannot become hostage to militia attacks. It is intolerable that once again a Unifil base has been established hit.” “I will try to speak to the new Israeli Defense Minister – he adds – which has been impossible since his inauguration until today, to ask him to avoid using the Unifil bases as a shield. Even more intolerable is the presence of terrorists in Southern Lebanon which jeopardize the safety of the peacekeepers and the civilian population” declared the minister.
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“In wishing a speedy recovery to the four Italian soldiers who were injured, I would also like to express my total disappointment and my firm condemnation for yet another serious and unacceptable missile launch against the UNIFIL headquarters in southern Lebanon. Finally, our gratitude goes to all our women and men in uniform, engaged under the aegis of the UN in a very delicate area of the Middle East”, commented Ignazio La Russa, president of the Senate of the Republic.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told Sky Tg 24 about the soldiers involved: “It seems that none of these have serious injuries. They are bruises, only one lieutenant seems to have light wounds, they do not appear to be serious injuries. None of them They are in danger, their injuries are not serious. Fortunately, things happened in the right direction even if what happened is unacceptable and intolerable.”
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What are the potential long-term impacts of Hezbollah’s involvement in recent attacks on peacekeeping forces in Lebanon?
**Interview with Dr. Elena Rossi, Middle Eastern Affairs Expert**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Rossi, thank you for joining us today. The recent rocket attack on the UNIFIL base in Lebanon, which injured four Italian soldiers, has raised significant concerns. What are your thoughts on this incident?
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. This attack is deeply troubling, especially given the ongoing mission of UNIFIL to maintain peace and security in southern Lebanon. The escalation of violence poses risks not just to peacekeepers but also to the local civilian population.
**Interviewer:** Reports suggest that Hezbollah may be behind the rocket strikes. How significant is this connection in the context of regional tensions?
**Dr. Rossi:** The possibility that Hezbollah is involved highlights the complexity of Lebanon’s security situation. Historically, Hezbollah has opposed foreign military presence in the region, and attacks like this can be seen as attempts to assert their influence. It exacerbates the existing tensions not only within Lebanon but also in relation to Israel, potentially drawing in other regional players.
**Interviewer:** Italian officials, including President Giorgia Meloni and Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, have expressed outrage and support for the wounded soldiers. How crucial is this political backing for the Italian contingent stationed in Lebanon?
**Dr. Rossi:** Political support is vital for military operations abroad. It boosts the morale of the troops and reassures their families back home. Furthermore, it sends a message to both allies and adversaries that Italy is committed to its peacekeeping role in UNIFIL. Such backing is essential to maintain operational effectiveness and humanitarian integrity in complex environments like Lebanon.
**Interviewer:** Minister Crosetto mentioned the need to avoid using UNIFIL bases as shields. What implications does this have for the safety of peacekeepers?
**Dr. Rossi:** That statement underscores a critical concern. If non-state actors use these bases for military cover, it puts peacekeepers at greater risk and undermines their mission. It’s imperative that all parties respect the neutrality of UNIFIL to ensure both the safety of the soldiers and the integrity of the peacekeeping effort.
**Interviewer:** In light of this incident, what steps should be taken to enhance the security of peacekeeping forces in Lebanon?
**Dr. Rossi:** Enhancing security measures is necessary, and this could involve increased reconnaissance, more robust communication with local communities, and strengthened collaboration with the Lebanese Armed Forces. Additionally, diplomatic efforts must be intensified to mitigate the influence of militias and foster a secure environment for both peacekeepers and civilians.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights on this pressing issue. It’s clear that the situation requires careful attention and action moving forward.
**Dr. Rossi:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we stay informed and advocate for the safety of those working to uphold peace in the region.